Course lectures as problem-based learning interventions in virtual worlds

Abstract

Virtual Worlds (VWs) present considerable potential as future learning platforms, but further studies are required to assess their effectiveness in constructivist and collaborative learning situations. The paper investigates the suitability of VWs as a platform for hosting PBL (Problem-Based Learning) activities and explores their affordances in terms of collaboration support and learning effectiveness. We have designed an educational VW and developed a number of tools that support collaborative learning activities. Using this environment, we have conducted a PBL intervention that required from students to collaboratively design the user interface of a multimedia kiosk. We performed a thorough, formative, multi-method evaluation of the learning activity. The results reveal several encouraging findings about PBL and collaboration mediated by VWs, and lead to a series of recommendations. © 2013 Springer-Verlag Berlin Heidelberg.