Using Discussions in a Virtual World: Student Perceptions
Abstract: The author of this study has used the virtual world Second Life for teaching a number of graduate and undergraduate courses, including courses in life science, science education, and educational technology. The perceptions of students as they experience instructional discussions in virtual worlds are explored in this study. Approximately 80 graduate and undergraduate students were surveyed to determine how they perceived using discussions as a learning strategy in Second Life. In addition, the journals of approximately 40 of these students are analyzed and interviews are conducted. In this presentation the author will discuss the results and her conclusions of this research. In addition to presenting the results, suggestions to future instructors will be provided.
Presider: Francisco Garonce, Universidade de BrasÃlia