Learning with virtual humans: Introduction to the special issue

Abstract

Virtual humans are embodied agents with a human-like appearance. In educational contexts, virtual humans are often designed to help people learn. In this special issue, we see six representations of this field from different perspectives, including system analysis and evaluation, value-added studies, and reviews of the literature. This diversity of research exemplifies the exciting field of virtual humans. In this introduction to the special issue, we discuss virtual humans in educational contexts, highlight the articles in this special issue, and outline productive future research directions.