Investigating the Design and Implementation of Educational Multi User Virtual Environments in Second Life applied to Information Sciences

The research aims to investigate how students' experience with design components of online simulations in Multi User Virtual Environments may relate to learning in higher education, specifically in information sciences. Using a design-based research methodology, the study makes use of a theoretical motivational model specifically for MUVEs, in the development of a set of educational MUVE design principles, their implementation and testing in a higher education classroom setting. From this, a design framework for implementation of simulations in MUVEs in higher education is developed based on research outcomes. The design of the MUVE setting was well accepted by the students supporting the implementation of the comprehensive set of design principles. The outcomes of the study were positive in addressing the problem of teaching complex subject content with students believing the use of the MUVE to develop their understanding of the complex principles superior to traditional teaching of the subject.