Authors:
Mohammed J. AlGhamdi
1
and
Debbie Richards
2
Affiliations:
1
Umm-AlQura University, Saudi Arabia
;
2
Macquarie University, Australia
Keyword(s):
Virtual Worlds, Virtual Environments, Learning, Second Life, e-Learning.
Related
Ontology
Subjects/Areas/Topics:
Computer-Supported Education
;
e-Learning
;
e-Learning Tactics and Strategies
;
e-Testing and Test Theories
;
Immersive Learning
;
Information Technologies Supporting Learning
;
Learning/Teaching Methodologies and Assessment
;
Pedagogy Enhancement with e-Learning
;
Virtual Learning Environments
Abstract:
The potential of 3D virtual worlds to introduce a new educational medium which can serve all types of learning as well as enhance the experience of both the instructor and learner appropriate to the 21st century classroom has been recognised and explored in previous studies. While participants report enjoyment and even improved learning outcomes, it is unclear what role the technology has played in achieving these benefits. Furthermore, e-learning, with its many forms, has been criticized due to the inability of the technology to provide the means which allows e-learning to become an equivalent alternative to traditional face-to-face learning particularly in terms of effectiveness and quality. The proposed study will examine explore these issues by assessing new alternatives, namely the use of Second Life, to traditional face-to-face education.