Abstract
The aim of the present study was to investigate the added value and pedagogical benefits towards the use of AR application as a learning tool, as well as, to identify the factors that may affect the use of AR appsand suggest effective ways to avoid them through distance professional training courses. In-service teachers were trained in how to design and develop augmented reality applications for their integration into teaching practice during the Covid-19 pandemic. In the present research, the qualitative sampling method was utilized and more specifically the “convenient” sampling (Mertens, 2014). The data analysis used was the thematic analysis for qualitative data. The results of this research present distance professional training seminars for augmented reality as beneficial for teachers, although they still face challenges and obstacles that need to be overcome. Crucial factors are the urgent need for effective cooperation between key stakeholders to support and make available AR applications in school, the lack of access to appropriate technological equipment to promote AR technology in teaching and learning, and the lack of incentives for personal and professional development, regarding the design and utilization of new technology tools and in particular, AR applications.
