Delve into the Deep : Learning Potential in

Abstract

Metaverses and 3D Virtual Worlds are increasingly being used in education and training to create learning experiences which are immersive, authentic and media rich. In particular, they provide opportunities to structure remote learning in engaging ways and are fast becoming part of the learning landscape in general. While there is a growing interest among practitioners and researchers in the training and knowledge sharing potential of these unique learning environments, current virtual world technologies offer a range of capabilities that need to be further developed. The aim of this paper therefore is to examine the potentialities of metaverses and 3D virtual worlds and to discuss how they may serve as learning tools. The article takes into account innovations that should be introduced to school education and considers the broad frameworks that have been developed to support the design and study of learning in immersive worlds. We conclude that these environments help extend learning beyond the classroom. Educators, practitioners and researchers are offered a wide range of recommendations and provided with basic key points for developing effective practices and for ensuring the achievement of meaningful learning outcomes. The paper provides an overview of different educational best practices that use Metaverses and Virtual Worlds as learning tools.