Collaborative Learning in a 3D Virtual Environment: Design Factors and Evaluation Results

The paper describes the design and evaluation of three collaborative 3D virtual environments for learning (i.e. 3D worlds shared through the internet in which learners meet together at the same time). Since the first program was launched in 2002, more than 3,600 students and 180 teachers from Europe and Israel have been involved in these projects. The educational impact has been carefully monitored using a variety of evaluation strategies. The results – in terms of achieved knowledge, skills and attitudes, as well as in terms of overall satisfaction – exceeded our expectations. The design elements that make up these complex educational experiences will be described in a manner that highlights their interplay(rather than as isolated design details) and explains the achievement of both expected and unexpected benefits.