Designing a 3-D Virtual Learning Environment for Training Teaching Competencies of STEM Graduate Teaching Associates: Lessons Learnt

• In Event: Marriott Roundtable Session 11
  In Roundtable Session: Designing for Games, Simulations, and Virtual Learning Environments

Abstract

While content knowledge and pedagogical teaching knowledge represent two different aspects of teacher preparation, not many programs to the date allow for development of teaching skills for science majors at the graduate school level. Existing training programs are often based on didactic or not immersive workshop-based approaches. In this presentation, we describe the design and development process of a 3D VLE aimed at training of teaching competencies in STEM areas (Ke, Lee, & Xu, 2016). The results of two iterative cycles of user testing and a GTAs training session highlight the importance of a design-based approach in specifying the levels of immersion (presence), scaffolding and facilitation within such environment. The implications for future science faculty preparation and learning theories are discussed.

Authors

• Mariya Pachman, Florida State University

• Fengfeng Ke, Florida State University

• Zhaihuan Dai, University of South Florida

• Xinhao Xu, University of Missouri