LEARNING IN VIRTUAL WORLDS―THE ADDED VALUE OF VR TECHNOLOGIES FOR LEARNING

摘要

Currently a paradigm-change in eLearning is taking place. Resource- Based Learning (RBL) scenarios, concentrating on the support of individual learning by providing interactive, media-rich resources are being replaced by scenarios putting the individual and its social learning process at the centre of attention. The upcoming scenarios are communication-rich, collaborative and focus on the social environment and organisational framework of learning. The corresponding buzz-words a e 'collaborative learning', 'team learning' or 'community learning'. Currently there are no technical systems available, which can support effectively such processes. We call these envisaged platforms '3rd generation learning platforms', initiating a third wave of learning paradigms. As the first one, we identify the development of computer-based training (off-line applications, dominated by closed, objectivist learning models), followed by the integration of content into the WWW (development of learning platforms supporting RBL) as is the dominating paradigm now.