Field research in Second Life: Strategies for discussion group facilitation and benefits of participation

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Authors
Author (Corporation)
Publication date
07/2017
Typ of student thesis
Course of study
Type
04A - Book part
Editors
Panconesi, Gianni
Guida, Maria
Editor (Corporation)
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Parent work
Handbook of Research on Collaborative Teaching Practice in Virtual Learning Environments
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DOI of the original publication
Series
Advances in Game-Based Learning (AGBL)
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Volume
Issue / Number
Pages / Duration
348-373
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Publisher / Publishing institution
IGI Global
Place of publication / Event location
Hershey
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Abstract
This chapter explores the educational potential of discussion groups situated in three-dimensional (3D) virtual worlds. Virtual discussion groups are examined from the following perspectives: the benefits and challenges of participation and the best practices in terms of effective discussion group moderation. The authors start by describing the benefits of online discussion groups and continue by identifying strategies on how to facilitate such meetings effectively, with a focus on techniques promoting a sense of community. The authors will discuss the major themes that emerged from the content analysis of field notes, an ethnographic journal, and interviews with a discussion group member after immersion in various discussion groups in Second Life. An understanding of the communication modalities (voice and text-chat) and the principles of social interaction may help educators use virtual learning environments effectively. Guidelines for discussion group moderation are presented throughout the chapter.
Keywords
virtual discussions in 3D, virtual worlds, discussion group facilitation, social presence, social cues, cognitive load
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ISBN
978-1-5225-2427-4
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Language
English
Created during FHNW affiliation
Yes
Strategic action fields FHNW
Publication status
Published
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Peer review of the complete publication
Open access category
License
Citation
Nussli, N., & Oh, K. (2017). Field research in Second Life: Strategies for discussion group facilitation and benefits of participation. In G. Panconesi & M. Guida (eds.), Handbook of Research on Collaborative Teaching Practice in Virtual Learning Environments (pp. 348–373). IGI Global. http://hdl.handle.net/11654/25374