Share Paper: Fostering a Sense of Presence in Online Instruction through the Use of a 3Dimensional Virtual Environment

  1. Adriana D' Alba, University of West Georgia, United States
  2. Jonathan Gratch, University of West Georgia, United States
Tuesday, November 15 2:45 PM-3:45 PM Edison Ballroom

Abstract: This presentation discusses research conducted at two different universities in the United States. Students enrolled in four different graduate courses experienced at least three synchronous meetings in a 3dimensional virtual learning environment (3dVLE) named SecondLife. Students engaged in meaningful discussions related to the course topic, collaborated in group activities, and answered a series of surveys adapted from three instruments: the Presence Questionnaire, ITC-Sense of Presence Inventory, and the Community of Inquiry Questionnaire. Researchers aimed to discover if the use of a 3dVLE helps to foster a sense of presence in courses delivered 100% online.