Chapter One — 1.1 Background to the Study

Organizations that depend on online learning management systems are under increasing pressure to modernize, and Augmented Reality has emerged as one of the more promising avenues for doing so, given its demonstrated impact in related domains.

Despite this potential, many existing online learning management systems were not originally designed with augmented reality in mind, resulting in persistent gaps in user experience that limit their overall effectiveness. This study examines how Augmented Reality can be applied to help close that gap.

1.2 Statement of the Problem

Existing approaches to user experience within online learning management systems remain largely reactive and fragmented, with little systematic use of augmented reality despite its demonstrated value elsewhere. This study addresses the resulting gap by designing and evaluating a solution built specifically around augmented reality.

1.3 Objectives of the Study

1. To design and implement a augmented reality-based approach to improving user experience in online learning management systems.
2. To evaluate the effectiveness of Augmented Reality in enhancing user experience within online learning management systems.
3. To identify the key requirements and constraints relevant to deploying augmented reality in this context.
4. To assess user and stakeholder perception of the resulting system.

1.4 Research Questions

1. How can augmented reality be applied to improve user experience in online learning management systems?
2. How effective is Augmented Reality at enhancing user experience within online learning management systems?
3. What requirements and constraints are relevant to deploying augmented reality in this context?
4. How do users and stakeholders perceive the resulting system?

1.5 Significance of the Study

Beyond its immediate technical contribution, this study offers value to organizations evaluating whether to invest in augmented reality for their own online learning management systems, and contributes to the broader literature on applied software technology / IT by documenting a concrete implementation and evaluation case.

1.6 Scope of the Study

As a MSc-level study, its scope is confined to designing and evaluating a augmented reality-based solution for online learning management systems, focused specifically on user experience; broader deployment considerations fall outside this scope.