Collaborative learning in multi-user virtual environments

• Published in: Journal of network and computer applications Vol. 36; no. 6; pp. 1566 - 1576
• Main Authors: Ibáñez, María Blanca, García Rueda, José J., Maroto, David, Delgado Kloos, Carlos
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: Elsevier Ltd 01.11.2013
• Subjects: 3D virtual worlds; Collaborative learning techniques and platforms; Collaborative workflows and applications; Collaborative workspaces and applications; Collaborative workspaces and applications; 3D virtual worlds; Collaborative workflows and applications; Collaborative learning techniques and platforms
• ISSN: 1084-8045; 1095-8592
• DOI: 10.1016/j.jnca.2012.12.027

Multi-user virtual environments (MUVEs) have captured the attention and interest of educators as remote collaborative learning environments due to their immersion, interaction and communication capabilities. However, productive learning interactions cannot be considered a given and careful consideration of the design of learning activities and organizational support must be provided to foster collaboration. In this paper, a model to support collaborative learning in MUVEs is presented. This model enables the scaffolding of learning workflows and organizes collaborative learning activities by regulating interactions. Software architecture is developed to support the model, and to deploy and enact collaborative learning modules. A user-centered design has been followed to identify successful strategies for modeling collaborative learning activities in a case study. The results show how interactions with elements of 3D virtual worlds can enforce collaboration in MUVEs. ► A 3D collaborative virtual model was designed to orchestrate collaborative learning activities. ► An architecture is developed to support the model, deploy and enact collaborative learning modules. ► Successful strategies for modeling collaborative learning activities were identified.