Realising the potential of virtual world-based simulations in higher education: a visual perspective

The purpose of this paper is to explore and illustrate the pedagogical possibilities of employing virtual world simulations across many disciplines of higher education and inspire educators to further develop their applications. We first present a discussion of the varied approaches to pedagogy along with the identification of the pros and cons for each one. Next, we present an introduction to virtual world concepts and key issues surrounding their use for educational purposes. A specific discussion of the virtual world Second Life is presented. Following, we present and depict by subject areas, the many potential and actual implementations of virtual world simulations in higher education. Virtual worlds are found to potentially accommodate many of the interactive and experiential pedagogical approaches and learning styles.