Abstract
This study investigates the comparative effectiveness of Augmented Reality (AR)-assisted gamification on spatial reasoning skills and student engagement in K-12 STEM education. Recognizing the critical role of spatial reasoning in STEM fields and the persistent challenges in maintaining student engagement, this research employed a quasi-experimental design involving three groups of K-12 students: an AR-assisted gamified intervention group, a traditional gamified intervention group, and a control group. Pre- and post-intervention assessments of spatial reasoning were conducted using standardized tests, while student engagement was measured through self-report questionnaires and observational rubrics. Findings indicate that the AR-assisted gamified approach significantly enhanced students' spatial reasoning abilities and fostered higher levels of engagement compared to both the traditional gamified and control groups. The immersive and interactive nature of AR, combined with motivational gamification elements, appears to create a more effective learning environment. This study contributes to the growing body of literature on innovative pedagogical strategies in STEM education, offering empirical evidence for the synergistic benefits of integrating AR and gamification to improve core cognitive skills and student motivation.
