Layered Software Architecture for the Development of Mobile Learning Objects With Augmented Reality

According to the m-learning paradigm, mobile learning objects (MLOs) are fundamental elements within the teaching-learning process. In this context, the integration of technology such as augmented reality (AR), incorporates an additional value to an MLO, generating by this, more interactive and attractive learning environments, which promotes higher involvement and engagement by being immersed in a virtually enhanced world. Our research postulates that the development of such MLOs must be based on standards, methodologies, and/or a layered software architecture which provide the adequate mechanisms to achieve the structure and quality attributes needed. Specifically, this paper presents the design and development of such architecture which allows obtaining MLO complying with the requirements and quality attributes. To achieve that, the architecture is composed of five layers: data persistence, learning personalization, interactivity, general structure, and standards. The layers are independent among them and the lower layers provide services to upper layers. In order to probe the benefits of the architecture, two prototypes of MLOs with AR were implemented and evaluated by a 20 master's degree students focusing on of pedagogical, technological, and usability aspects. The results show that the architecture contributes no only to integrate AR in MLOs but more importantly to obtain MLOs with the quality attributes required as a digital educational resource.