Learning in Virtual Worlds: Research and Applications

Three-dimensional (3D) immersive virtual worlds have been touted as being capable of facilitating highly interactive, engaging, multimodal learning experiences. Much of the evidence gathered to support such claims has been anecdotal but the potential that these learning environments hold to solve traditional problems in online and technology-mediated education – primarily learner isolation and student disengagement – has resulted in considerable investments in virtual world platforms like Second Life, OpenSimulator, and Open Wonderland by both professors and institutions. To justify this ongoing and sustained investment, institutions and proponents of simulated learning environments must assemble a robust body of evidence that illustrates the most effective use of this powerful learning tool.

In this authoritative collection, a team of international experts outline the emerging trends and developments in the use of 3D virtual worlds for teaching and learning. They explore aspects of learner interaction with virtual worlds, such as user wayfinding in Second Life, communication modes and perceived presence, and accessibility issues for elderly or disabled learners. They also examine advanced technologies that hold potential for the enhancement of learner immersion and discuss best practices in the design and implementation of virtual world-based learning interventions and tasks. By evaluating and documenting different methods, approaches, and strategies, the contributors to Learning in Virtual Worlds offer important information and insight to both scholars and practitioners in the field.

Table of Contents

PART ONE HUMAN–COMPUTER INTERACTION
Chapter 1 Navigation and Wayfinding in Learning Spaces in 3D Virtual Worlds
Chapter 2 Communication Modality, Learning, and Second Life
Chapter 3 Virtual Body: Implications for Identity, Interaction, and Didactics
Chapter 4 (In)Accessible Learning in Virtual Worlds
Chapter 5 Benefits of Second Life in the Ageing Population
Chapter 6 The Reality of Authentic Learning in Virtual Worlds

PART TWO ADVANCED TECHNOLOGY
Chapter 7 Conversational Agents in Second Life: Freudbot
Chapter 8 Virtual Bots: Their Influence on Virtual Worlds, and How They Can Increase Interactivity and Immersion through VirtualPREX

PART THREE LEARNING DESIGN AND IMPLEMENTATION
Chapter 9 Analyzing Teaching Practices in Second Life: A Design Taxonomy for the Implementation of Workshops in Virtual Worlds
Chapter 10 Netconnect Virtual Worlds: Results of a Learning Experience
Chapter 11 Scaffolding Learning Through the Use of Virtual Worlds
Chapter 12 Challenges and Strategies in Designing Cross-national Learning: Team Projects in Virtual Worlds
Chapter 13 Introduction to Laws Relevant to Virtual Worlds in Higher Education