Abstract

Virtual worlds are engaging, stimulating spaces where students can meet online for normal class activities, including lectures, discussions, case studies, projects, papers, exams, and labs. Classes are a mix of synchronous and asynchronous activity. A virtual world class differs from a traditional course management system, such as Blackboard or Moodle, due to the three-dimensional (3D) graphical setting, the use of avatars to represent the class participants, and the sense of presence that puts the learner within the scene. The use of virtual worlds expands on the campus-based and online classrooms, enhancing learning experiences. Classes in virtual worlds offer opportunities for visualization, simulation, enhanced social networks, and shared learning experiences. Naturally, the tool's capabilities do not guarantee a great learning experience. The success of a course depends on effective course design, delivery, and assessment. Course designers, instructors, and IT professionals are challenged to create stimulating content, deliver it reliably, and ensure a stable virtual world learning environment. (Contains 3 figures and 1 note.)

Citation

Calongne, C.M. (2008). Educational Frontiers: Learning in a Virtual World. EDUCAUSE Review, 43(5), 36-38. Retrieved August 7, 2024 from https://www.learntechlib.org/p/102250/.

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Keywords

• case studies
• Computer Simulation
• Computer Uses in Education
• Courseware
• Learning Experience
• online courses
• social networks
• Synchronous Communication
• teaching methods
• technology integration
• Virtual Classrooms