Learning in a virtual environment
4th November 2009
There are many ways to learn, and/or to be taught. In the digital age that is upon us, it is inevitable that learning environments would become digital as well.
Virtual learning environments (VLE) are very effective, and means that the individual can interact from any location with an internet connection. The flexibility and mobility of this type of learning is invaluable.
Higher and further education establishments such as universities and colleges are adopting this learning style, to add to the vast array of other learning tools available.
The virtual world, Second Life, is being used more and more by businesses to educate potential customers about what is available. PowerPoint presentations, and other such tools, can be streamed live through Second Life so “virtual meetings” can take place in real-time. Educational institutions are using it too, research found that 80% of UK universities use Second Life for development, teaching or learning activities. Internationally, 300 universities use this virtual world for conducting researching or lessons.
Other VLEs are internet forums - where information, links, lecture notes, contact details etc are posted and kept up to date. All enrolled students have private login details, and can access this forum whenever they need to.
I have probably not even scratched the surface regarding the capabilities of what the VLE I currently use can do, but I will endeavour to find out! It is certainly supporting my learning and I think they are an invaluable addition to anyone’s education.
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