McGraw Hill, Verizon Launch Free Augmented Reality App for K–12 — THE Journal

McGraw Hill, Verizon Launch Free Augmented Reality App for K–12

McGraw Hill and Verizon this week launched a new, free app for K–12 to bring augmented reality to the classroom.

The app, McGraw Hill AR, is designed to “bring academic concepts to life and give students and educators new ways to engage with educational content,” according to the companies.

Designed for common mobile devices, it offers standards-aligned lesson plans through Verizon’s online education portal, Verizon Innovative Learning HQ. At launch time, McGraw Hill AR offers three algebra readiness activities, along with geometry for grades 6–12, designed as supplements to any core curriculum with the aim of improving student engagement. The companies indicated a “full suite of 10 math-centric activities” will be live by this fall.

“As we look to combine the value of hands-on learning with the benefits of emerging technologies, we found AR to be a natural area of exploration in the development of our suite of education tools,” said Shawn Smith, chief innovation officer for McGraw Hill’s School group. “Following the disruptions to classroom learning over the past few years, our AR app will pioneer new ways of engaging students with important concepts and materials. While AR technology may still be an area of uncertain utility today, we see the possibility of boundless impact tomorrow and are excited to take this step in support of the students and teachers we serve.”

The McGraw Hill AR app is available now for Android and iOS phones and tablets in the Apple Store and Google Play. The app is free.

About the Author

David Nagel is editorial director of 1105 Media’s Education Technology Group and editor-in-chief of THE Journal and STEAM Universe. A 29-year publishing veteran, Nagel has led or contributed to dozens of technology, art and business publications.

He can be reached at [email protected]. You can also connect with him on LinkedIn at or follow him on Twitter at @THEDavidNagel (K-12) or @CampusTechDave (higher education).