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The Next Generation Learning EnvironmentUsing 3D & Virtual Gaming Principles in E-Learning
THE VIRTUAL FRONTIER
Edward Prentice IIICentrax Corporation
Chicago, IL [email protected]
David McGrathGrainger
Chicago, IL [email protected]
The Webinar will examine:
• Several virtual learning environments.
• How simulations and gaming techniques facilitate learning.
• How 3D animation and visualizations enhance learning programs.
• Design and technical considerations.
• Practical applications of 3D and virtual learning models.
NOTE: All demos in this program were developed by Centrax. The Demo Links only work in the “ View Show” mode.
THE VIRTUAL FRONTIER
What is the Virtual Frontier?
• It is not just a simulation or computer game.
• It is not corporate learning in the traditional sense.
• The Virtual Frontier is the next generation learning environment. It blends the disciplines of simulations, gaming elements and performance support.
• The future of e-learning will tap into the human spirit. It will challenge individuals and spark innovation.
THE VIRTUAL FRONTIER
3D VISUALIZATION • 3D Visualization is an effective tool for learning because individuals comprehend images much faster than blocks of text or simpler 2D images.
• Because interactivity is key to learning, 3D is often used to create immersive imagery that engages learners and allows them to effectively visualize and manipulate the subject matter.
EXAMPLES
Presenting information in an interactive, visual format increases the understanding of challenging or complex material. 3D animation can be effectively used for process training…
3D Visualization
Demo Link
.
EXAMPLES
…and sales simulations.
3D Visualization
Demo Link Demo Link
EXAMPLES Exploration and Discovery Based E-Learning Programs
• Gaming techniques can be used to facilitate the learning experience– content can be transformed from page-turners into interactive multi-player games.
• The same techniques used to create children's video games can effectively be applied to adult learning programs.
Demo Link
EXAMPLES Exploration and Discovery Based E-Learning Programs
Gaming technology, combined with advanced 3D visualizations enables you to create realistic learning environments for various types of training:
• Safety & Compliance• Sales & Customer Service• Manufacturing - Equipment Repair - Product or End-User Training• Scenario-Based Simulations (interacting with 3D characters)
DESIGN CONSIDERATIONS
• Needs Analysis• Audience profile• Interview subject matter experts• Visit the real-life environment
• Where will your story begin?• How will the learner enter the virtual environment?• Is this how they begin the task in real life?
Instructional Design & Content Development
DESIGN CONSIDERATIONS Instructional Design & Content Development
• Provide just enough detail to intrigue
• Engage the learner from the beginning• Provide learners with the information and tools needed to solve the task or problem
• Set the stage for the scenario
• Will pedagogical agents such as storytellers or coaches be used?
DESIGN CONSIDERATIONS Multimedia Considerations
• Utilize as many learning styles (and engage as many senses) as possible• Will you use audio, text, graphics – or perhaps a blend of all three?• Combining graphics with audio improves learning and retention rates because both visual and phonetic processing are engaged.
• What types of graphics will be used?• Do the graphics support and enhance the content?• Are the graphics meaningful?
DESIGN CONSIDERATIONS Navigation Considerations
• Friendly, inviting interface
• Intuitive navigation
• Primary & Secondary Navigation
• Use “paths” as navigation in interactive scenarios
DESIGN CONSIDERATIONS Assessment Considerations
• Keep the concept simple
• Utilize the learner’s competitive nature
• Evaluation: What do you want to track? vs. What learning will take place by exploration?
• Consider variety of ways for tracking results
DESIGN CONSIDERATIONS
TECHNICAL CONSIDERATIONS
Delivery Considerations: • Determine the lowest common denominator of end user systems.
• High-end gaming software requires advanced video hardware, high bandwidth, and fast processors to run properly.
Web-based / CD:
• If web-based, the software may need to be tailored to run at slower access speeds ( unless all users have broadband connections).
• It is more efficient to deliver advanced video games via CD. Most advanced gaming software can run from a CD, while interactions and multi-player functions can run over the internet.
TECHNICAL CONSIDERATIONS
Development Considerations:
Development Tools:• 3D Studio Max• Photoshop• Illustrator• Various 3D object modeling programs
Game Authoring Software:• Flash• Director• Authorware• Various C++ game engine compiler programs
TECHNICAL CONSIDERATIONS
Development Considerations:
Run Time Considerations:
Web: Flash is the most common “game capable” plug-in available on most browsers today. Other authoring applications may require the downloading of plug-ins.
CD: User should have an 8X drive or faster, 333 MHz or higher processor and an advanced video card.
PRACTICAL APPLICATIONS
PRACTICAL APPLICATIONS
Medical Training – 3D modeling is used to develop detailed models of the human body. These models can then be rotated and viewed from any angle.
Demo Link Demo Link Demo Link
PRACTICAL APPLICATIONS
Health & Fitness – 3D modeling and gaming principles are used to create realistic fitness simulations that enhance the experience of indoor exercise.
www.dynamicwellness.com
Demo Link Demo Link Demo Link
PRACTICAL APPLICATIONS
Mechanical Training – 3D modeling demonstrates how equipmentcomponents are assembled or configured.
PRACTICAL APPLICATIONS
Simulations for Transportation – 3D modeling features transportation scenarios that are difficult, dangerous or expensive to demonstrate.
Demo Link
PRACTICAL APPLICATIONS
Sales Simulations – 3D environments and characters enable learners to practice during virtual sales calls.
PRACTICAL APPLICATIONS
Soft Skills Simulations – 3D characters are often used in soft skill training, where the learner interacts with other virtual players in different scenarios.
Demo Link
PRACTICAL APPLICATIONS
Safety Training – 3D is effective in safety training where the student learns to work safely in a virtual ‘hazardous’ environment.
Demo Link
PRACTICAL APPLICATIONS
Equipment Training – 3D is used to represent equipment in the virtual environment that learners can interact with and manipulate.
Demo Link Demo Link Demo Link
CONTACT INFORMATION
Edward Prentice III
Centrax Corporation
300 E. Randolph, Suite 2800
Chicago, IL 60601
(PH): 312-946-9360
Web Address: http://www.centrax.com
E-learning BLOG: http://www.elearningblog.com
E-mail: [email protected]
