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=Virtual Worlds as Reliable, Sustainable Learning Environments=

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Technology Trial: Commercial and Open Source Virtual Worlds
This trial researched current experiences and practices in virtual world projects to develop standards and guidelines to increase reliability, interoperability and reduce access issues for teachers, trainers and learners. The Tasmanian Polytechnic reviewed both commercial and open source virtual worlds to explore issues around information management, security, age and ICT restrictions.

The trial followed an action research methodology informed by the recent and current experience of learners and teachers in the Tasmanian Polytechnic. The research team worked collaboratively with these learners and teachers to design solutions and develop guidelines that meet the needs of learners as well as qualification requirements. The focus will be on organisational requirements as well as reliable and sustainable access to the immersive learning environment. The research team will also sought the knowledge and advice of recognised experts in virtual worlds and ICT service provision. This helped to ensure that any guidelines developed and recommendations made about possible e-standards were current national best practice as well as being achievable in large learning organisations. The intention was that recommendations from this project about the use of virtual worlds as immersive learning environments be used by educators wishing to implement them and others involved in the development or updating of e-standards as applicable.

E-standards for Training through the Australian Flexible Learning Framework, made funding available to registered training organisations (RTOs) for the trialling of emerging technologies. The purpose of this funding was to explore emerging technologies and identify areas where future standards work may be required. (Read more)

Download this report: Download Issues and Possible Strategies Summary:

This Technology Trial was completed 1st October 2010 (although the wiki may continue to be updated) This page is located at http://vw-standards.wikispaces.com/