Development of Εducational Μaterials about Gecko Effect in Primary School: An Augmented Reality-enhanced approach

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Published: Apr 18, 2026
DOI: https://doi.org/10.12681/codiste.9862
Keywords:
augmented reality digital material gecko effect nanoscience-nanotechnology primary school students
Konstantinos Alexiou
University of Western Macedonia
https://orcid.org/0009-0006-7767-3731
Giorgos Peikos
University of Western Macedonia
https://orcid.org/0000-0002-4718-544X
Angelos Sofianidis
University of Western Macedonia
https://orcid.org/0000-0002-1378-9739
Anna Spyrtoy†
University of Western Macedonia
Abstract

The study aims to develop educational materials incorporating augmented reality elements for teaching the gecko effect to 5th- and 6th-grade students. The educational materials followed an inquiry-based approach and focus on concepts of Νanoscience - Nanotechnology, particularly the size of objects and the observation tools, as well as the explanation of the gecko effect. A digital game was developed to guide students through an inquiry-based exploration of the macro-, micro-, and nanoscale. Augmented reality environments were also created, enabling students to access information about the gecko effect in an engaging way. Finally, specially designed worksheets support students in documenting and analyzing the collected information. The educational materials were evaluated by primary school teachers with experience in teaching nanoscience and nanotechnology concepts. The teachers highlighted positive aspects, identified implementation challenges, and suggested potential improvements.

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