GeoWorlds: VIRTUAL LEARNING ENVIRONMENTS FOR THE GEOSCIENCES

Geoworlds developed and tested interactive modules to examine the effectiveness of virtual learning environments in urban schools. Working with virtual graphics designers, two modules in Earth history (Terra World) and hydrology (Water World) have been developed for the Second Life (SL) virtual environment. Embedded in the SL environment are several types of media, quest cards containing scaled questions about environment, climate conditions, landform and life changes, and assessments. Students create their own avatars that explore the virtual world. Integrated assessments provide qualitative and qualitative feedback on attitudes, Earth science content, and critical thinking. A comprehensive curriculum guide is available for teachers. Preliminary results from pilots in the Shawnee Mission School District, KS, the Kansas City, Missouri School District, MO, and the Junction City School District, KS demonstrate high levels of student interest and interaction with the environment. They enthusiastically engaged with the technology and geoscience content. Students accurately integrated real world field knowledge with their virtual knowledge.