Research+-+Getting+Started

=Research - Getting Started=


 * Issue: How can a teacher or students get started in virtual worlds when they are so different that it takes a large investment in time?**

Virtual worlds are a very different kind of learning environment - particularly for those who have not played immersive games involving the use of avatars.

See Getting Started in Second Life or Getting Started in Reaction Grid Basic video help (SL Viewer 1.23) Second Life Help (New Viewer)
 * Advice about how to get started in a virtual world is varied but some common suggestions are**
 * visit a virtual world for the first time with someone who can introduce you to its basic features and alert you to potential pitfalls
 * explore and play in a virtual world before thinking about using it with students for learning
 * visit virtual worlds which have well developed educational communities, help videos and documentation
 * try out virtual worlds and resources purposely built to meet particular learning outcomes


 * Some methods for facilitating new teachers using virtual worlds with their classes**
 * arrange for an experienced teacher to take the class while the class teacher participates as a learner
 * arrange for an experienced facilitator to join the class 'in-world' to help students
 * encourage students to assist each other - some usually find it easier than others
 * produce some quick 'how to' screencasts for students (eg using Jing, Screenr, Camtasia) and look online for many that already exist (eg YouTube)
 * allow students time to A) Personalise their avatar B) Learn to interact with the virtual environment C) Learn to interact with other avatars

Accessing a virtual world in an educational institution often requires more than just installing a client and registering for an account. ICT, admin and management support is often required as well as collaboration with colleagues. Engaging key stakeholders with information, research and stories about why virtual worlds might be used within the organisation can be an important step. Without 'buy-in' from key people in an organisation progress is likely to be slow.
 * Getting started in an educational institution**


 * Educational Uses for Virtual Worlds**
 * Immersive Learning: It's Game On
 * jokaydia wiki: Educational Uses of Second Life
 * RezEd
 * Practical Examples of 3D Virtual Environments for Learning in High School
 * jokaydia wiki: Getting Started in Reaction Grid
 * Greenbush Labs See Projects
 * Kindlelab
 * Second Life Education Wiki
 * Second Life as a Virtual Learning Environment


 * Australian Networks of Educators using virtual worlds**
 * Second Classroom: Educators Learning in Virtual Worlds
 * Exploring the Metaverse: Virtual Worlds and Games for Learning
 * Search for groups inside virtual worlds


 * Further Reading**

Virtual worlds - Learning in a changing world by Judy O'Connell and Dean Groom

Emergence of virtual worlds Learning in the metaverse Tools and techniques Making the transition

Recommendations for possible Guidelines/Standards

 * Consider starting slowly and learning with students.
 * Use the extensive range of existing help documentation and videos found online.
 * Identify and encourage students who can help others as early as possible.
 * Encourage students to source or produce their own help documentation.
 * Consider producing quick 'how to' screen captures customised for local needs.
 * Join a learning network with other educators using virtual worlds.
 * Allow time for play within a structured learning plan.