Investigating learners' attitudes toward virtual reality learning environments: Based on a constructivist approach

  • Authors:

  • Hsiu-Mei Huang;Ulrich Rauch;Shu-Sheng Liaw

  • Affiliations:

  • Department of Information Management, National Taichung Institute of Technology, 129, Sec. 3, Saming Rd., Taichung 404, Taiwan;The Learning Centre (TLC@UTT), University of Trinidad and Tobago, O'Meara Industrial Park, Arima, Trinidad, WI, USA;General Education Center, China Medical University, 91 Shiuesh Rd., Taichung 404, Taiwan

  • Venue:
  • Computers & Education
  • Year:
  • 2010

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Abstract

The use of animation and multimedia for learning is now further extended by the provision of entire Virtual Reality Learning Environments (VRLE). This highlights a shift in Web-based learning from a conventional multimedia to a more immersive, interactive, intuitive and exciting VR learning environment. VRLEs simulate the real world through the application of 3D models that initiates interaction, immersion and trigger the imagination of the learner. The question of good pedagogy and use of technology innovations comes into focus once again. Educators attempt to find theoretical guidelines or instructional principles that could assist them in developing and applying a novel VR learning environment intelligently. This paper introduces the educational use of Web-based 3D technologies and highlights in particular VR features. It then identifies constructivist learning as the pedagogical engine driving the construction of VRLE and discusses five constructivist learning approaches. Furthermore, the authors provide two case studies to investigate VRLEs for learning purposes. The authors conclude with formulating some guidelines for the effective use of VRLEs, including discussion of the limitations and implications for the future study of VRLEs.