Preparing pre-service teachers for classroom practice in a virtual world: A pilot study using Second Life

Authors

  • Tracey Muir Faculty of Education University of Tasmania
  • Jeanne Maree Allen Faculty of Education University of Tasmania
  • Christopher Stephen Rayner Faculty of Education University of Tasmania
  • Ben Cleland Tasmanian Institute of Learning and Teaching University of Tasmania

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.5334/2013-03

Keywords:

Inclusive practices, practicum, pre-service teachers, Second Life, virtual classroom

Abstract

Many pre-service teachers feel under-prepared to teach students with a diverse range of needs and abilities and continue to be concerned about classroom behaviour management when undertaking practicum experiences. In order to address these concerns, teacher educators have explored alternative pedagogical approaches, including computer based simulations and immersion in virtual worlds. This paper reports on the results of a pilot study conducted with eight pre-service teachers who operated avatars in a virtual classroom created within Second Life (SL)™. The pre-service teachers were able to role-play students with a diverse range of behaviours and engage in reflective discussion about their experiences. The results showed that the pre-service teachers appreciated the opportunity to engage in an authentic classroom experience without impacting on "real" students, but that the platform of SL proved limiting in enacting certain aspects of desired teaching pedagogy. The findings of this pilot study are discussed in relation to improving the preparation of pre-service teachers for practicum.

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Published

2013-03-08

Issue

Section

Articles