Learning in a Virtual World

This week we were assigned the article, "Educational Frontiers:  Learning in a Virtual World" by Cynthia M. Calongne, 2008.

This article was very interesting and talked about learning through the use of virtual worlds.  I noticed that the first section about "Orientation" talked about the importance of teaching students how to do things and I think this is a very important step in the overall virtual learning experience.  Learning the basics is the first stepping stone when learning in a virtual environment.  In the article, Cynthia stated, "mistakes are great opportunities for learning."  I couldn't agree more with this statement, and in fact some of my best mistakes have taught me the best lessons. 

Cynthia also stresses the importance of "Shifting students from the passive role of survivors and castaways to the active roles of researchers and expolorers requires a change in their perception of themselves and their willingness to participate."  We are in a society of textbook users and adding a new element such as a virtual world really presents a challenge to students in learning.  I think the key is exposure and acceptance to as much virtual world activity as possible.  Once students have enough exposure, they will feel more comfortable and accepting of this new type of learning.

Further on in the article, Cynthia states, "The struggle to discover solutions is part of the learning process."  I think this is a very important statement that all students should take heed to.  It isn't always up to the teacher to show you how to do something.  Students should expand their minds and think outside the box, especially when they are in a virtual environment.  Students should want to figure things out for themselves and if they can't then ask the teacher for help.