Journal 3: Walk, Fly or Teleport to Learning

Yoder, M.B. (2009). Walk, Fly, or Teleport to Learning. Learning and Leading with Technology, 37(2), Retrieved September 22, 2009 from

http://www.iste.org/AM/Template.cfm?Section=September_October_No_2_3&Template=/MembersOnly.cfm&NavMenuID=4381&ContentID=24200&DirectListComboInd=D

This article is a great example of how far we have come in using technology in the classroom. Children love using the computer to play games and now sites have been created to incorporate life lessons in a game like atmosphere. MUVEs are becoming very popular and allow teachers virtual learning tools for their students. High quality educational islands provide teachers with a place to share resources and learn new skills. These sites allow students to use their imaginations and participate in an atmosphere where they feel comfortable. These sites also open many doors for students such as Global Kids an organization whose mission is "to educate and inspire urban youth to become successful students and global and community leaders by engaging them in socially dynamic, content-rich learning experiences." By making this available to these students they are able to experience and learn in forums that may have never been available to them. Virtual Aid is also a great way for students to experience what others may be going through and allow them to collect “hero” points in helping others. These sites create a game like atmosphere so that students can experience valuable life long lessons. This is a great way that technology can be used in classroom. These sites are immersing students into real world experiences that they may have never been exposed to without these virtual sites.

How can these sites help improve students academic goals?
Virtual Worlds in the classroom can help students improve their academic goals by opening the doors to all different types of worlds. They can experience life lessons that they may have never been able to experience without these technological advances. They are able to receive and assortment of learning opportunities and can learn about different places and people around the world.

Do you think all schools should incorporate some sort of virtual world in their classrooms?
Absolutely, I think this is a great way for students to become aware of other places. Also, these sites can help bring to life what they learn in class. Their imaginations can be used in the learning process and they will continue to be entertained in the classroom setting.