PREDESCU BOGDAN

FILS 1222 E
Virtual Worlds Characteristics

Desktop virtual reality can be defined as a simulation of a real

environment or a 3D representation of an abstract concept created using
computer technology, wherein users have the ability to interact with the
virtual environment in real time using various control devices (Ausburn
& Ausburn, 2004; Slater & Usoh, 1994).

Virtual worlds represent a new medium in education that presents many

opportunities. In recent years, online learning has changed the face of
education by becoming a powerful tool, allowing people to learn at their
own homes. But, despite all of the above, online learning comes with
some disadvantages too.

Every student needs personal help at some point, thing that cannot be
achieved using interactive workbooks and textbooks. Classrooms and
lectures allow students to engage with their teachers by raising hand and
ask questions when it is most useful. This is far better than having to
send an email and await a reply. Another thing that cannot be find in the
online learning environment, is the social part where students should
make study-groups, build friendships and rivalries that provide
emotional motivation for pushing themselves to learn more and succeed.

Virtual worlds can deliver the best aspects of both classrooms and online
learning environment into one single platform using different tools like
avatars for lectures and students, a big library full of resources at only
one click away, voice and video interaction. This new concept can give
teachers the opportunity to have a greater level of student participation
and the ability of students from abroad to study without high costs like
transportation or housing.

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In the virtual classroom, students have access to various resources, like
the ability to record lectures and listen to them later or a big online
library.

As we can see, there is a big difference between online learning and

virtual world learning, the interaction process between students and
teachers is what makes the difference.

As a conclusion of all the above, some great virtual worlds

characteristics are low cost for students, the fact that is a very friendly
and interactive application and the mix between learning and having fun.

As a final part to our review about Virtual Worlds Characteristics, we

have to talk about three different styles of learning.

With the formal learning bus, "the driver decides where the bus is going;
the passengers are along for the ride."
When on the informal learning bike, "the rider chooses the destination,
the speed, and the route."

To understand better, we have to take a closer look.

Formal education
Formal education is hierarchically structured, chronologically graded
educational system, running from primary school to through the
university. Formal learning programs are typically synonymous with full
scale learning management system (LMS) with courses and curricula
mapped in a very structured way. The content and all the learning
materials can be delivered in a traditional way, in a classroom, complete
with lectures, required reading and scheduled testing. As technology,
screen-sharing can also be used for remote learners to attend. In Virtual
Worlds some of these aspects can be also present, for example the
content is structured and screen-sharing is also used often.

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Informal learning
The truly lifelong process whereby every individual acquires attitudes,
values, skills and knowledge from daily experience and the educative
influences and resources in his or her environment - from family and
neighbors, from work and play, from the market place, the library and
the mass media.

With informal learning, there is no classroom. You can study from

anywhere, like your home or a park.

Informal learning content is more easily shared and distributed via social
channels like Facebook or Twitter, and more adaptable to mobile devices
for on-the-go viewing. As a main idea, a good informal learning
program provides information to learners anytime, anywhere.

Some of these examples can also be found in Virtual Worlds like how
the content is online and you can study from anywhere in the world
using an internet connection and also the possibility for a person to
develop some skills and knowledge in his or her environment.

Non-formal learning
Organized (even if it is only loosely organized), may or may not be
guided by a formal curriculum. This type of education may be led by a
qualified teacher or by a leader with more experience. Though it doesnt
result in a formal degree or diploma, non-formal education is highly
enriching and builds an individuals skills and capacities. Continuing
education courses are an example for adults. Girl guides and boy scouts
are an example for children. It is often considered more engaging, as the
learners interest is a driving force behind their participation.

Some important characteristics of non-formal learning are concern with

specific categories of person, a focus on clearly defined purpose, and
flexibility in organization and methods.

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Bibliography:
1. Vanessa P. Dennen & Jennifer B. Myers. Florida State
University USA: Virtual Professional Development and
Informal Learning via Social Networks, 1980
2. Veronica S. Pantelidis. College of Education, East
Carolina University, Greenville, North Carolina, USA:
Reasons to Use Virtual Reality in Education and
Training Courses and a Model to Determine When to
Use Virtual Reality
3. https://cdns3.trainingindustry.com/media/2043910/acs
%203d%20worlds%20and%20virtual
%20learning_whitepaper%20april%202009.pdf
4. http://www.wired.com/insights/2013/12/virtual-reality-
and-learning-the-newest-landscape-for-higher-
education/
5. http://www.oecd.org/edu/skills-beyond-
school/recognitionofnon-formalandinformallearning-
home.htm
6. http://www.infed.org/foundations/informal_nonformal.h
tm
7. https://drsaraheaton.wordpress.com/2010/12/31/formal-
non-formal-and-informal-learning-what-are-the-
differences/
8. http://infed.org/mobi/informal-non-formal-and-formal-
education-programmes/
9. https://drsaraheaton.wordpress.com/2012/02/28/charact
eristics-informal-learning/
10. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Nonformal_learning