An Architectural Perspective for the Design of Educational Virtual Environments
Michele D. Dickey · Journal of Visual Literacy · 2004
Three-dimensional virtual worlds are a new technology being used as learning environments, however problems associated 3D virtual environments such as student feelings of disorientation and problems wayfinding may impact learning. This interpretive case study investigates using an architectural perspective for design. The setting for this case study is a distance learning course using the virtual world application Active Worlds as a setting. Methods of data collection include participatory observations, formal interviews with course designers, and informal inteiviews with participants. Findings revealed the inclusion and placement of architectural objects and elements helped students to identify places, relocate previously visited places and supported the construction of cognitive maps for the learners.