Development and evaluation of an experiential learning service in 3D virtual world

Abstract

Online virtual world learning is gaining popularity in academic institutions as an alternative means for experimental and distance education. In this article, we present some results for a pilot study of an experiential learning service (ELS) on Second Life. Our study focuses on the application of "3D Virtual World" technology in the education industry, explores what chances can have in 3D VW such as Second Life. We Integrated garment industry and e-Business knowledge, built an overview business model of operating an online garment store in 3D VW, identified key processes and composed an story script about the model. Several 3D tutorial scenarios based on the script were constructed in Second Life.( Locate at Second Life :IBM China Business Innovation Ce, IBM China BIC (144, 175, 141)).With the constructed ESL, we take Technology Acceptance Model (TAM) as guarding theory ,design an experiment to evaluate the subjects' attitude about the service, 26 undergraduates as subjects attended the experiment. © 2010 IEEE.