Designing a 3D learning event

Very helpful checklist on designing 3D educational events, from Karl Kap

Prior to Class

* Make sure everyone can access the 3D world prior to the actual event...have a "dry run" exercise.(technical specs, fire walls and other requirements need to be addressed for all learners to be engaged during the event.)
* Send plenty of advance notices about when and where to meet.
* Set up a site outside of 3D world for correspondences and messages (like a wiki).
* Make sure learners have an avatar prior to class.
* Encourage learners to explore the 3D world prior to class so they are somewhat oriented to class.

In-World

* Make sure everyone can do basic navigation. Start with an orientation exercise.
* In Second Life (SL), make sure avatars are off of the Orientation Island.
* In SL, provide a SURL to transport students to place for instruction
* Regardless of the instructional exercise/archetype, create a gathering place for learners for pre or post briefings.
* Establish some method to speak (or text) to the entire group.
* In SL, consider whether or not you want to permit flying.

During the Class Activity

* Make instructions are clear (vague instructions are hard to follow, provide them in written format if possible…in SL, use a note card.)
* Provide a time limit for the instructional exercise.
* As the instructor, go group to group to see how the learners are doing and to answer any questions specific to a particular group (if a group exercise).
* If the setting is more classroom-oriented, provide a mechanism for hand raising and for developing an orderly method of call on students.
* Establish rules of behavior in terms of gestures, sounds, building.

After Class

* Conduct a debriefing.
* Make future assignments clear so everyone understands.
* Assign in-world activities outside of class to keep learners involved with 3D world when class is not officially meeting.
* Provide opportunities for after class, informal, peer-to-peer learning and exchange of information.