ERIC Number: ED551608
Record Type: Non-Journal
Publication Date: 2013
Pages: 252
Abstractor: As Provided
ISBN: 978-1-2678-4445-3
ISSN: N/A
EISSN: N/A
How E-Learning with Second Life, an Online Virtual World Technology System, Affects Teaching and Learning
Collins, Sharon Kibbe
ProQuest LLC, Ph.D. Dissertation, Walden University
Educators face challenges as they seek to ensure their online learning content is interactive, is engaging, and works well for remote learners. Second Life (SL), an online virtual world technology-based system built on Web 2.0 technology, is one approach designed to enrich online instruction and e-learning. This study involved a synthesis of concepts related to (a) gathering individual reactions to using information technology; (b) integrating an interactive, collaborative environment; and (c) creating a viable, efficient, and engaging classroom for students. The unified theory of acceptance and use of technology addressed the objectives of using an information system and subsequent usage behavior. The purpose of this qualitative case study was to collect, analyze, and triangulate data to determine the ways in which students and instructors perceived SL, the extent to which the system was an efficient technology tool, and the ways in which it affected teaching and ultimately learning. Thirty students and 10 faculty were purposefully selected to participate in surveys and one-on-one interviews to answer research questions about their perceptions. Use of the constant comparative method to analyze the interview and survey data collected enabled the identification of common themes related to the research questions. Faculty and students indicated that SL was useful as a teaching and learning tool and was an efficient technology tool when it was tied directly to the content of the course material. Positive social change may occur if institutions are provided with teaching strategies for the use of technology tools such as Web 2.0 that could improve online instruction. [The dissertation citations contained here are published with the permission of ProQuest LLC. Further reproduction is prohibited without permission. Copies of dissertations may be obtained by Telephone (800) 1-800-521-0600. Web page: http://www.proquest.com/en-US/products/dissertations/individuals.shtml.]
Descriptors: Educational Technology, Web 2.0 Technologies, Computer Simulation, Technology Uses in Education, Qualitative Research, Case Studies, Student Attitudes, Teacher Attitudes, Surveys, Interviews, Comparative Analysis, Teaching Methods, Course Content, Distance Education, Instructional Effectiveness
ProQuest LLC. 789 East Eisenhower Parkway, P.O. Box 1346, Ann Arbor, MI 48106. Tel: 800-521-0600; Web site: http://www.proquest.com/en-US/products/dissertations/individuals.shtml
Publication Type: Dissertations/Theses - Doctoral Dissertations
Education Level: N/A
Audience: N/A
Language: English
Sponsor: N/A
Authoring Institution: N/A
Grant or Contract Numbers: N/A