I found this after my first example, but I thought this was actually much more compelling, so I’m adding it.  The inclusion of other senses besides vision to AR would almost certainly increase immersion and help to focus attention.  For instance, an educational application including vision, sound and touch might be much more compelling than just text, diagrams on a board, physical models, or vision alone.  I know one “standard’ application of this sort is chemistry (modeling molecules) but I’ve also heard of immersive water flow simulations and math applications in VR.  I would assume those type applications could be transferred to AR (or a mix of AR/VR).

Studies have shown that attention is a large factor in memory and learning, and immersion or presence can affect attention.  So, presumably, anything which increases attention would improve learning and retention.  I’d be interested in pursuing immersive experiences that help students (especially, but not exclusively, special needs students) to improve the quality and quantity of their education.