Introducing immersive technologies for learning : a study evaluating the readiness for using virtual worlds for learning and teaching in an Indian University

Abstract

This paper presents a case study demonstrating successful involvement of a shared online 3D virtual world as an educational aid, for teaching Networks and communication, to both first year and final year students in an engineering college in India. While virtual worlds have been incorporated into regular form of studies in many universities world-wide, Indian universities such as the one being examined are yet to explore such new technologies to encourage attentiveness among students to study complex subjects and stimulate independent learning. This study was conducted to identify whether the selected university can be benefited from such technology to assist learning tasks that promote student learning engagement. It also discusses the outlook of faculty members and students to determine their acceptance to integrate immersive learning into the regular curriculum. The paper is arranged as follows: Section I introduces the nature of the paper and the reason of survey and development of the virtual environment. Section II focuses on the related background work on virtual education and its importance. Section III explains the building process in virtual environment and explores the design decisions made. Sections IV mainly discusses the survey undertaken, its procedure and setup. Results are finally discussed in Section V followed by Section VI which focuses on conclusion.