Supporting Collaborative Learning Processes in CVEs by Augmenting Student Avatars, with Nonverbal Communication Features

Abstract

This paper proposes virtual metaphors, appearance features, gestures and animations that can be used for avatars in Computer Supported Collaborative Learning three dimensional Environments. Our aim is to enrich avatars’ support to nonverbal communication, as well as to enhance and improve students’ collaborative interaction. Within this context, by implementing virtual avatars representations and “non real” world existing tools in Second Life, we conducted a case study at the level of tertiary education.