COLLABORATIVE LEARNING AND VIRTUAL LABORATORIES. A NEW WAY OF TEACHING AND LEARNING ON THE INTERNET

This paper aims to present the results of the research activities about collaborative learning carried on by International Telematic Universities UNINETTUNO, specifically regarding design, development and implementation of learning experiences based on virtual laboratories integrated in the International Telematic University UNINETTUNO’s e-learning platform.

In particular, this paper focuses on the interaction models designed and applied in UNINETTUNO’s Island of Knowledge learning environment; a virtual, tridimensional environment where the avatars of teachers and students cooperate and realize collaborative learning experiences triggered by a learning-by-doing approach using remote-controlled and simulated virtual laboratories.

The paper will present concrete applications deriving from the deep study of the complex interrelations existing between communication technologies and cognitive models, and between technologies and distance teaching and learning processes theoretical models. Through virtual laboratories, students can apply the theories learnt in other learning environments of the cyberspace, where they can handle and interact with virtual objects, formulate and test hypotheses. In this learning activity, the students, besides being assisted by a human professor-tutor, can also receive the support of automated pedagogical agents. Specifically, the paper will describe examples of remote-controlled virtual laboratories, and an innovative applications able to transform mobile devices in portable virtual labs.

Furthermore, I describe the UNINETTUNO University’s tridimensional virtual laboratories, designed and developed in the framework of international research programs, allowing to connect with other laboratories worldwide as well as to redefine the geography of research and innovation processes.