The goal for weeks 4 and 5 in this course was to create a virtual world using the Alice Video software. Since there is not prompt for this posting, I am going to expound on the virtual worlds in education.
As we enter into an era where things are far more complex and technologically charged, it is imperative that we as educators stay abreast of the changes, modifications, and enhancements to technology tools and devices. We are no longer dependent solely on textbooks and face-to-face interaction to teach and learn anymore. So much of our everyday lives is spent checking Facebook, tweeting, posting pics on Instagram, using Google+, emailing, blogging, listening to podcasts, streaming internet radio, skyping, face timing, and so much more. It is important to adapt teaching to the times but without losing the concept of traditional learning purposes.
Virtual Worlds can be an exciting and hands-on experience in the since that the person has the ability to create their virtual persona and interact with others just without the presence of actual physical contact. Our students can benefit from these virtual worlds by joining groups and interacting to solve problems and enhance critical thinking. It promotes collaboration and the acceptance of others. Teachers can facilitate learning and monitor proper behavior of students within the virtual world classroom. In addition to online group discussions like Wimba, students can participate in class discussions and feel free to solicit the help of others in a controlled environment.
Although the Alice software was tricky and hard to complete initially, it is easy to grasp the fact that virtual worlds will become a education technology tool more readily used in instruction.
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