There are many advantages and disadvantages to virtual worlds and the technology within it that enables educators to utilize in their teaching. In her article, Growing up with Google: What it means to education, Diana Oblinger (2008) points out one important thing about students and technology and that is we have to understand that not "all students are attracted to technology" (p. 20). I think this could be another disadvantage because we, too many times, assume every kids growing up has a computer and/or video game system and they love everything about technology. In reality, that might not be the case.
Many students I've worked with at my DE Department have a hard time using a computer and sometimes have no idea how to log into their account online or access online courses. This is why it's important to understand that "not all students have computers, not all are skilled users, and not all want to use technology" (Oblinger, 2008, p. 20). I think these students might not be ready for the virtual worlds because they are a lot more complicated.
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I would say that if a student is enrolled in a distance education course, then they need to become familiar with technology (if they aren't already). But even having a familiarity with technology does not guarantee success in the virtual world. I would consider myself a techy as I have been involved with computers since the 60s (my mom made me go to work with her and taught me how to do data entry). BUT and that's a BIG BUT the virtual world (and video games) baffle me.
ReplyDeleteVideo games that involve mazes are difficult to navigate because I can't see the whole picture. But is that because of a lack of technical ability or just the way my mind works? Second Life has presented a similar challenge. At least there I can navigate, but again I need some sort of instruction ... I need a manual!
I think we all need some kind of manual when it comes to learning...unless you're putting a cabinet together and the instruction in the manual is out of wax :-)
ReplyDeleteI stopped playing video games when I was like 14...Super Nintendo, the best game system ever! When I started playing the Wii, it was strange because I had to started learning from the beginning how to use the remote control. I still can't play too many 3D games on the computer because it makes me dizzy after awhile.