redesigning virtual classroom to virtual worlds; ibm; inclusive leadership

© 2010 IBM Corporation

Bert De Coutere – IBM Learning Development Europe

Redesigning leadership training for 3D immersive worlds

IBM Learning Development Europe

© 2010 IBM Corporation2 IBM Learning Development Europe

What did we do?


We redesigned a course as an engaging and rich 3D learning activity, taking into account the affordances of 3D worlds.

Once upon a time there was classroom training

That got redesigned into a virtual classroom

And not got transformed into a 3D virtual world moderated learning activity


Affordances of 3D worlds for learning.

Redesigning for 3D worlds based upon our Virtual Social Environment Meta Learning Framework


Why?


Technology has triggered new kind of learning activities. IBM is a technology company that loves to try out new applications of technology. So we identified which learning programs would benefit from 3D.

Diversity and inclusive workplace part of IBM's history and values

Focus on 3D applications (EBO)

The 'fit' came out of the pre conditions checklist.


With what result?


Let's see for yourself. Take some popcorn. It's movie time!

Visual learning goal

Stuff you can't do in other learning formats

Learning Commons


With what impact?


We did a comparative survey in a focus group for both the Centra and the Second Life (behind the firewall) session. Here are some comments.

“Definitely more fun and interactive than Centra, closer to inclass learning.”

"I feel more participative in the class. Totally support this tool.”

"The interactivity of the modules is much more engaging than a discussion. It seems like the people are more open to share when you 'feel' like you are in the same space instead of just on a call.

"I feel like I am talking to other 'humans' when in SL. Centra is easier to get distracted to my email. SL keeps me focused on the class.”

Survey respondents agreed or strongly agreed that this Second Life experience was more effective than an equivalent Centra experience because:– "I felt more socially connected to my peers." [73%]– "SL simulated the experience of diverse individuals." [80%]– "Learning in SL enhanced my understanding of the issues diverse individuals may face

in the workplace." [67%]

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Leadership Development Programs ®


Perceived value of learning in Second Life (3D): Focus group data*

Most Effective for Learning in 3D Least Effective for Learning in 3D

• Visually seeing where others assessed their teams across the 4 stages of diversity •Brick wall is a metaphor to remember barriers• Creates an interactive environment• Unable to multi-task – makes me more focused on learning• Creates feeling for cohort group to be together virtually• Immersive environment makes it feel more like a classroom•You can observe whether others are paying attention or not•Holds my attention unlike any other media•Immersive experience is a memory builder

• Flat charts not as effective as exercises• Until everyone was familiar, technology was a hindrance• Getting set up took a long time •Some of the tools were difficult to use (calendar blocks, Ether pad.) •Would have preferred VoIP instead of phone line• Having to “walk” avatars from main room to breakout; Prefer teleport. •Could be even more immersive if activities used audio for avatars

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Leadership Development Programs ®


Comparison of Second Life to Centra: Focus group data*

Strengths of Second Life Strengths of Centra

•More memorable – impacts retention with visualization and immersion•Sense of presence – togetherness•Less able to get distracted and multi-task (e.g. email)•Group interaction feels more connected and real •Visualization much more effective (e.g. brick wall, calendar)•Captures your attention•More engaging with others and the environment•Sense of a ‘real’ discussion with cohort•More fun•Easier to learn

• Simple to use compared to Second Life• No hardware issues• Audio is built in• Even if you have an old laptop, Centra still works• Can present a lot of information (on slide decks) to a large audience

Participants were asked to identify the ways in which the 3D environment (Second Life) provides a more effective learning experience than that of Centra (2D) and vice versa.


It doesn't stop here. We are redesigning other modules too, like for negotiating skills, cultural sensitivity, etc.

Recently won a Brandon Hall award “Best Use of Virtual Worlds for Learning”.

redesigning virtual classroom to virtual worlds; ibm; inclusive leadership

Education

effective learning experience

inclass learning

learning formats

d worlds

d environment

perceived value of learning

second life experience

visual learning goal