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Towards a Psychological Model for Learning in Avatar-based Virtual Environments: How Important is Spatial Processing?
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, , , , University of Alberta, Canada

EdMedia + Innovate Learning, in Amsterdam, Netherlands Publisher: Association for the Advancement of Computing in Education (AACE), Waynesville, NC

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Abstract

In this project, we investigated the relationships between the spatial arrangement of a 3D, avatar-based environment (linear, random and clustered), student individual differences and learning outcomes. After students completed pretest measures of perceived and demonstrated spatial skill as well as measures of computer experience, they completed a virtual environment learning activity with ten information stations. They then completed a multiple choice test to determine how well they retained the information. A multiple regression analysis showed that the clustered spatial arrangement was significantly related to higher learning outcomes over the linear or random arrangements. Regarding the students’ premeasured abilities, demonstrated spatial skill and general exposure to digital applications predicted learning outcomes whereas social media experience, video game experience and perceived spatial skill did not.

Citation

Boechler, P., Gautreau, H., deJong, E. & Sterling, P. (2018). Towards a Psychological Model for Learning in Avatar-based Virtual Environments: How Important is Spatial Processing?. In T. Bastiaens, J. Van Braak, M. Brown, L. Cantoni, M. Castro, R. Christensen, G. Davidson-Shivers, K. DePryck, M. Ebner, M. Fominykh, C. Fulford, S. Hatzipanagos, G. Knezek, K. Kreijns, G. Marks, E. Sointu, E. Korsgaard Sorensen, J. Viteli, J. Voogt, P. Weber, E. Weippl & O. Zawacki-Richter (Eds.), Proceedings of EdMedia: World Conference on Educational Media and Technology (pp. 2075-2083). Amsterdam, Netherlands: Association for the Advancement of Computing in Education (AACE). Retrieved June 28, 2022 from .

© 2018 Association for the Advancement of Computing in Education (AACE)

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