Virtual Worlds for Learning: Students’ Perspective
PROCEEDINGS
Irene Govender, University of KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa ; Nkosikhona Dlamini, UKZN, South Africa
E-Learn: World Conference on E-Learning in Corporate, Government, Healthcare, and Higher Education, in Las Vegas, NV, USA ISBN 978-1-939797-05-6 Publisher: Association for the Advancement of Computing in Education (AACE), San Diego, CA
Abstract
Virtual worlds (VWs) constitute a growing space for many aspects of life including playing, learning and teaching, and collaborating. VW applications are among the most popular technologies that are used by a range of people – from the child at home to students to professionals. Many higher educational institutions have found a space in VWs. This study (1) explored the potential of VWs for delivering computer mediated communication designed for Information systems students; (2) examined the limitations, barriers and solutions associated with a specific virtual world, Second Life (SL); and (3) determined students’ perceptions of SL. 25 students participated in the study. Participants completed a survey to determine their perceptions towards the use of virtual worlds such as Second Life for learning. It was determined that the use of SL was an enjoyable experience, however, actual learning gains can be achieved by spending more time in orientating students in the use of Second Life.
Citation
Govender, I. & Dlamini, N. (2013). Virtual Worlds for Learning: Students’ Perspective. In T. Bastiaens & G. Marks (Eds.), Proceedings of E-Learn 2013--World Conference on E-Learning in Corporate, Government, Healthcare, and Higher Education (pp. 1523-1529). Las Vegas, NV, USA: Association for the Advancement of Computing in Education (AACE). Retrieved August 7, 2024 from https://www.learntechlib.org/primary/p/115093/.
© 2013 Association for the Advancement of Computing in Education (AACE)
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