The Innovation Fund


Virtual learning spaces: harnessing the power of modern technology to create interactive learning environments

 

University of Natal (DBN)

Proposal number:

21215

Focal area:

Information Society

Total funding:

R 5,025,000

Funding year 1:

R 1,714,000

Funding year 2:

R 1,565,000

Funding year 3:

R 1,746,000

Many people argue that learning should be fun and engrossing. In this project modern technologies of Internet communications and computer games will be combined with educational theories to create a learning environment where young South Africans can explore our rich and diverse culture and history. They will also learn about the relationships between science, arts and humanities. In this virtual space players navigate through computer generated landscapes and communicate with other players using chat, audio (virtual telephone) or video-conferencing sessions to solve the puzzles built into the system and thereby learn about each other.

The learning space will include an inner city and many different exploratory spaces. In the inner city players, linked via the Internet, will be able to interact with each other and learn about democracy. In the exploratory spaces player will explore different facets of our history and culture to solve problems related to the birthplace of humanity, farming, seeing sound (writing), the origins of power (steam and electricity), disease and epidemics and the communication revolution.

The project attempts to enlighten, entertain and develop skills in young South Africans, evaluate the use of virtual spaces as viable educational tools, develop advanced software, foster collaborative research, and educate postgraduate students in the methodologies of education and game design.

Project Coordinator:

Prof Alan Amory
Phone: +27 (0)31 2603192
Email: amory@nu.ac.za

 

Public reports / Newsletters: 

  • none 

 

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