Abstract:

This paper advances the use of the Three-Dimensional (3D) Collaborative Virtual Environments in blended learning context as tool to help in the interaction between students, teachers and learning resources. These environments promote new concepts, new approaches and new strategies which have been changing the paradigm of teaching and learning. In addition to these benefits, the virtual words are now being used as environment/development platforms.

The development of 3D virtual environments require a systematic process, led by a series of well-defined phases and activities, which helps us to efficiently develop high-quality applications. The research presented here focus on a enhanced students' performance model based on the methodologies mentioned above and it consistes in 5 main phases: planning, analysis, design, implementation and assessment. The whole process begins with the analysis of students and environment characteristics. The content analysis is performed to explore the structure of environment. The identification of learning events, learning units and instructional methods are included in the design. The assessment is a critical factor to ensure well-designed blended learning environment, therefore the evaluation design process is discussed in detail.

The study highlights also a set of design guidelines that help the educators developing appropriate learning styles and preferences according to students' learning needs. Additionally, it stimulates the acquisition of knowledge and provide high-level of interactivity, allowing the exchange of information, experience and the necessary validation of knowledge. The people learn on their own as well as interact in group.

Keywords:

Virtual Worlds, b-learning, Collaborative learning, Collaborative virtual environment.