Effects of Surrogate Embodiment and Age on Learning and Motivation in Multi-User Virtual Environments

• In Event: Poster Session 5
  In Poster Session: Motivational Processes Related to Goals, Emotions, Interest, and Self-Regulation

Abstract

This study investigated the effects of surrogate embodiment and age in virtual environments on the learning and motivation of graduate students enrolled in an online course. Students enrolled in two sections of the course were presented with material (text and slides) on problem solving. Each student in the experimental group was asked to complete a problem solving activity as an avatar in a virtual environment while the control group reviewed the learning material again. After the manipulation, all students were given open-ended questions that tested their understanding of problem solving theory. Students who experienced surrogate embodiment demonstrated a significantly better understanding of problem solving than students who did not experience surrogate embodiment, and age was significantly related to enjoyment.

Authors

• Saadia A. Khan, Teachers College, Columbia University

• John B. Black, Teachers College, Columbia University