A 3D Virtual Classroom Simulation for supporting school teachers' training based on Synectics - "making the strange familiar"

Abstract

The possible exploitation of 3D Virtual Worlds (VW) remains a major challenge for school teachers, since 3D VWs introduce new concepts that even teachers who are experienced and keen on using digital technologies are not familiar with. To this end, there are research studies that have raised issues, such as, the extra pressure applied to teachers who teach within 3D VWs, and the lack of understanding of the new possibilities offered by 3D VWs in teaching and learning. Within this context, in this study we present a 3D Virtual Classroom Simulation appropriately designed and implemented using SLOODLE for supporting a module for teachers' continuing professional development based on the Synectics "Making the strange familiar" instructional strategy, that aim towards acquiring appropriate competences for teaching and for developing innovative educational practices within 3D VWs. © 2011 IEEE.