An Assessment of Learning Through the Use of a Constructivist Learning Environment

New Search

Print Abstract

E-mail Abstract

Full Text

Save to My Collections

Export Citation

Seagram, R. & Amory, A. (2006). An Assessment of Learning Through the Use of a Constructivist Learning Environment. In E. Pearson & P. Bohman (Eds.), Proceedings of World Conference on Educational Multimedia, Hypermedia and Telecommunications 2006 (pp. 2165-2172). Chesapeake, VA: AACE.
Retrieved from http://www.editlib.org/p/23306.

• Share:
• 
• 
• 
• 
• 
• 

Conference Information

World Conference on Educational Multimedia, Hypermedia and Telecommunications (EDMEDIA) 2006
June 2006
ISBN 1-880094-60-6
  Elaine Pearson & Paul Bohman
AACE

More Information on EDMEDIA
Table of Contents

Authors

Robert Seagram, Virtual Learning Spaces Project, University of KwaZulu-Natal, Durban 4041, South Africa, South Africa; Alan Amory, Centre for Information Technology in Higher Education, University of KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa, South Africa

Abstract

This publication deals with the formative testing of an educational 3D constructivist microworld designed to engage learners concerning serious diseases in the South African context. Both quantitative and qualitative methodologies were used to evaluate the effectiveness of this learning environment as a learning tool. Comparison of pre- and post-gameplay questionnaires showed that learners gained a richer understanding of the topics in the game. The puzzles embedded in the environment stimulated conversation between learners. The longer learners discussed certain knowledge domains, the richer their description of that knowledge domain was after gameplay. This highlights the importance of social dialogue in the knowledge construction process and suggests that these environments encourage learners to discuss and negotiate mutually acceptable knowledge. The original Puzzle Process model was modified to account for the importance of social dialogue in the puzzle solving process.

Keywords

• Educational Technology

Also Read

• The Future of Educational Computing Research:The Case of Computer Programming
• Educational Designing with MicroWorlds
• Simulation Development by Students: An Alternative Cross-Thematic Didactical Approach
• Developmentally Appropriate LOGO Computer Programming with Young Children
• Principles for the Design and Use of Simulations in Science Learning as Exemplified by a Prototype Microworld
• The Squares Family: A Game and Story based Microworld for Understanding Arithmetic Concepts designed to attract girls.
• Teaching Mathematics with Logo and Geometer’s Sketchpad
• Design And Evaluation of SimBuilder
• Mobile Learning for Tertiary Students: An Exploratory Study of Acceptance of Use
• Implementing Computer Technologies: Teachers' Perceptions and Practices

Tags