Augmented reality (AR) is an emerging technology that integrates virtual elements into real-world environments. While its most prominent applications are currently in the entertainment sector, AR holds immense potential in educational contexts. In recent years, the use of emerging technologies in education has been shown to enhance engagement and reduce boredom, offering dynamic new ways to interact with learning content. Furthermore, such technologies can support diverse learners by facilitating more inclusive and accessible educational experiences.

One framework that promotes inclusivity is Universal Design for Learning (UDL), which offers guidelines for creating learning materials that accommodate a wide range of learners. By following UDL principles, educators can enrich content design and enable learners to personalise their learning experiences according to their individual needs. Although UDL primarily focuses on pedagogical strategies and content delivery, integrating its principles into the design of technology-enhanced learning environments—particularly those that employ emerging technologies like AR—can further broaden accessibility and improve user experiences.

To explore how AR and UDL can support diverse learners in achieving educational outcomes, a serious game was developed within the framework of the Serious Gaming for Universal Access to Green Education, Play2Green project. The result, Green Siesta Quiz, is an AR-based green serious game that uses augmented elements to support user motivation and facilitate controlling the game using hand gestures.

Preliminary user testing was conducted using both objective and subjective methods, including in-game analytics and post-game questionnaires. Participants engaged in gaming sessions where data on their interactions was captured, followed by a questionnaire assessing their learning outcomes, user experience, and overall satisfaction with the implemented UDL features. The goal of this evaluation was to determine whether the combination of AR and UDL-informed design could contribute to more accessible, engaging, and effective learning experiences in the context of green education with preliminary results showing promise in support of this goal.

Keywords: Augmented Reality, Universal Design for Learning, Serious Games, Green Education.