We actually model 3D in our courseware when we work with Wiring Schematics. Despite the fact that the actual schematic and corresponding Component location pictures are two dimensional...we often take the learning concept to the next level and with the aid of pass around parts I have the students look at the actual items from different angles and then picture in their minds what that would correspond to in the actual images on the computer. Some times we also go to the vehicle to do the same sort of exercise but with the actual vehicle components. I will also ask them to relate to science shows on TV on in Movies where they show images in 3D. I believe it helps to broaden their understanding of the systems and also gives them sort of a glimpse of what is to come in the not too distant future.
Our students are required to design networks, including the physical layouts. Simulated 3D could aid in the design of networks in multi-level buildings perhaps.
I could use to show different views of the automotive sensors and their locations in a vehicle.
There are many tasks that we could set up in this type of environment that would give the students an almost hands on type experience. I teach automotive and this way, they wouldn't hurt themselves or cost money if they make a mistake.
For my students a 3D teaching environment would allow them to go through the motions of the job that they are training for. For example, dealing with difficult customers/patients, entering prescriptions, answering telephones, etc, which would prepare them for work in a real pharmacy.
I feel that this Second Life can be beneficial to our students who can understand how this site works. I for one cannot seem to open up anything in there. I for one am the student asking for help to navigate my way through there without paying out of pocket for this service.
I would love to see how this can be used in the cooking world.
I think being an instructor for cosmetology we use role-playing and many students hate to get up in front of the class. I think this would be an amazing. I have book marked to research and implement it into my classroom
After speaking with a colleague who works at a different school, she inspired me to consider using Second Life as a means for creating a virtual lab. In that lab, I could have the students engage in emergency treatment for patients in a variety of settings. I could probably even consider going beyond a virtual lab and creating a simulation for classroom group discussions.
Using the technology of today can be a huge advantage in the world today, the students are so computer savvy that it should always be incorporated as a learning tool.
Second Life has many benefits as I have found many universities that have “islands.†It can allow those with provided access with the ability to join the classroom anywhere in the world.
In the Criminal Justice field the use of projector simulators for firearms training has given way to simunitions – a paint bullet (which has graduated from the paint ball). Your imagination is the only limit in a three dimensional world (and if you have limited imagination, there are those who do for a fee). It adds an interesting dimension to the adult learning realm.
While a 3D environment is good for medical I would use it for my project management class. I would have them do a building project and if I can control the weather and other variables give them real life problems in building something.
Bethanne,
Fantastic! That sounds like a great idea. Consider pulling together a team of your students and peers to assist with this endeavor. It could be a resource for multiple classes and a learning tool for years to come.
Wishing you continued success in the classroom.
Theresa Schmitt
This whole concept is new to me, and quite frankly, I am overwhelmed at the possibilities it could potentially open up for the students and myself as an instructor. I love the 3D idea. I could potentially build a whole hospital floor with patients and have the students be responsible for the patients' care. I definitely will be looking into this area of opportunity to see how it works and how it potentially could work for our program.
I have not used any 3D environments but I think in nursing field, it can be used as a role play for patient teaching aspects.
Simulate troubleshooting an air conditioning system followed by the repair utilizing a step by step 3D animation to show why the sequence of the troubleshooting and the effective repair are both critical.
I would love to incorporate this into my microbiology class. I am not a good artist, ask my students, but I am drawing! I draw cells and viruses and bacteria. I try to draw some of what happens within the cell, exocytosis, endocytosis, reproduction/binary fission. Oh my goodness, it is funny sometimes because my pictures look more like a smiling frog than a virus. I can just imaging to simulate this with a 3-D environment program. And I have already started looking into it, just now, after learning about it here in this course.
Maricar, as a Health Information Technology instructor I discuss health administration (Elec Hlth Records) procedures, along with medical, allied and public health technologies (models, robots, etc.) using traditional lectures. As I reviewed the information on Second Life, I thought it would be wonderful to incorporate 3D interactive sessions as learning activities for my students. Of course I couldn't figure out how until I read your post. For example, students can have a better comprehension of the various Telemedicines with an avatar, virtual reality using Second Life for rural and other areas with little access to healthcare. Thanks!
We have in the past used augmented reality in our drawing classes. Allowing students to draw or even sculpt something abstract. Giving them ability to see all the angles by just looking through the tablet.
Wendy,
If you are new to incorporating technology into the classroom I would start with Skype rather than 3D because it is more user friendly. You can perhaps assign a "warm up" presentation in which the student books a brief Skype session with you prior to in-class presentations and you can provide one on one feedback before the big day. Students could also record a video(a functionality on all smartphones) and upload it to a class portal or private YouTube channel for peer feedback in preparation of in-class presentations.
Wishing you continued success in the classroom.
Theresa Schmitt
I teach a Speech class and many of the students are terrified of getting up in front of their classmates. Perhaps a 3D situation where they could practice and get "virtual" feedback could help. It all sounds so foreign to me.
