Author/Authors :
TOKEL, Saniye Tuğba Orta Doğu Teknik Üniversitesi - Eğitim Fakültesi - Bilgisayar ve Öğretim Teknolojileri Eğitimi Bölümü (BÖTE Bölümü), Turkey , CEVİZCİ KARATAŞ, Esra Orta Doğu Teknik Üniversitesi - Eğitim Fakültesi - Bilgisayar ve Öğretim Teknolojileri Eğitimi Bölümü (BÖTE Bölümü), Turkey
Abstract :
Use of three-dimensional (3D) virtual world platforms has been increasing worldwide. These online multi-user environments, where users move and interact in simulated 3D spaces, provide many opportunities for learning and teaching. Educators have been experimenting with these technologies by investing in research and development. The purpose of this study is to analyze research trends in 3D virtual world literature. Therefore, this study analyzed research from 2008-2013 using the constant-comparative method across five categories: (a) use cases of virtual worlds, (b) research topics, (c) disciplines, (d) platforms, and (e) participants. The results revealed that virtual worlds have been used in three ways, e-learning, experiential learning, and social interaction. Moreover, the attitudes and experiences of learners were the most commonly examined topics, followed by collaboration/social interaction and social presence. Foreign language, medical, and teacher education were notable disciplines studied in virtual worlds, and participants were generally students in higher education. The results also revealed that Second Life was the most commonly used platform.
NaturalLanguageKeyword :
three , dimensional virtual worlds , education , research trends
