3D Environments - are they any good for learning?

Playing a little bit with 3D environments, I believe I am able to predict and project where and for what, this unique solution is useful for learning purposes. A disclaimer: I am no expert in 3D uses. Therefore, I could have missed a couple of learning benefits. I'll be happy to hear from you - the readers - what are your thoughts.


The first use: infrastructure for live learning delivery: a virtual stand up instruction replacement. The 3D environment allows for synchronous online learning delivery, where the "face to face" avatars interaction is friendlier compared with at&t Webex. The environment allow for sharing presentations, conducting discussions and more.


Looking at a spectrum of solutions, between live stand up instruction on one hand, and a conference call, with shared presentation on the other hand - the 3D is positioned below Video Conference and higher than Webex. The VC allows for eye contact and sense of intimacy that is second to class interaction only. At&t Connect and Webex allows for sharing documents, and conducting discussions, but they are no match to the 3D cool graphics, the avatar movement and the ability to interact in real time.


The second use: scenario based focused workshops. Here, a well crafted lineup will engage the learners in an adventure game, or flight simulations, or work process scenario. A large variety of solutions are in this category. The differences between them can be assessed on how close to reality the scenario is. Usually close-to-reality scenarios will be used for skills sharpening (learn to drive, learn to fly, learn medical procedures by simulating battle field, and more).


Non realistic environment, like a tropical island, will usually used for exercising more abstract competencies like collaboration, problem solving, decision making and more.


The third use: replacement for class workshops, where the main benefit is the ability to engage people from several locations.


From all other aspects, the 3D provides exactly what a class provides: a meeting place. There is no programming involved, no predefined scenarios.


Amir Karmin