Article
Shifts in Student Motivation During Usage of a Multi-User Virtual Environment for Ecosystem Science
International Journal of Virtual and Personal Learning Environments
(2014)
Abstract
In incorporating technology in science education, some have expressed concern that the value added by
technology is primarily due to the novelty or excitement about using the devices, resulting in no lasting effect
on student motivation or learning in science. This research addresses this concern through evaluation of
student motivation during a two-week, multi-user virtual environment (MUVE)-based curriculum for middle
school ecosystems science. Analysis of multiple surveys at the beginning, middle, and end of the curriculum
found that students continued to find the activity engaging from beginning to end, while student value of its
utility in helping them learn science increased significantly. Furthermore, while initial student engagement
resided primarily at the technology interface level, with time and experience students became increasingly
engaged in the student-led, collaborative inquiry experiences afforded by the embedded scientific investigation.
Keywords
- Technology,
- Immersive Virtual Environment,
- Motivation,
- Interest,
- Science Education
Disciplines
Publication Date
2014
DOI
10.4018/IJVPLE.2014100101
Citation Information
Shari Metcalf, Jason A Chen, Amy Kamarainen, Kim Frumin, et al.. "Shifts in Student Motivation During Usage of a Multi-User Virtual Environment for Ecosystem Science" International Journal of Virtual and Personal Learning Environments Vol. 5 Iss. 4 (2014) p. 1 - 16 Available at: http://works.bepress.com/jason-shih-hao-chen/13/