Using 3D Virtual Worlds: Engaging AU Learners & Providing Social Support

Abstract

Demonstrating how an avatar-based 3-D learning environment can more fully engage AU learners in their online educational experience Dr. David Annand, Gunnar Schwede, Gabriela Husch and Marguerite Koole will showcase a prototype of a virtual AU campus developed in Second Life. This immersive experience promises to make AU services more readily accessible, facilitate formal collaboration within a self-paced learning environment, and provide an improved means to develop informal support networks among online students. The volunteer team of developers from the Centres for Distance Ed., Psychology, Commerce & Admin Studies, and Ed. Media Development, Public Affairs, and the Office of the VP Academic look forward to discussion and audience feedback.