@inproceedings{f1f379bcc1c34b1a8470b713bfecba77,
title = "Dynamic virtual learning landscapes to enhance student reflective processes",
abstract = "It has previously been shown that the gamification of learning processes within a higher education degree can enhance engagement on a course (Charles, 2010). This approach exposed the {"}mechanics{"} or {"}rules{"} of a course of learning through game based feedback techniques; so that a student's individual understanding of what is expected for him/her to be a successful learner was improved. Subsequent research proposed greater emphasis on the aesthetic aspects within the game based feedback approach through the use of virtual learning landscapes (VLL) (D. Charles et al 2010). The use of a VLL makes it possible to utilise the physical properties of game environments and virtual worlds to provide students with a rich form of multi-modal information and feedback. In this paper, the concept of the virtual learning landscape is explored in further detail. A background is provided and an adaptive VLL system is presented. The adaptivity within the proposed architecture focuses on tracking the user over time using theory from trace-based systems research (Settouti et al 2009). By using this approach, it is possible to facilitate student self-examination regarding their progress and development. User-tracking enables each student to consider their progress as a learning journey, allowing them to visualise their development within their course of study and illustrating how their interactions have altered the landscape over time. The adaptive core to the VLL in turn functions to dynamically alter the landscape for the user. The multi-modal interactions within the VLL provide improved student reflection mechanisms, helping each student 'learn how to learn' and so to become more effective learners. Results from an initial set of focus tests investigating the use of space, lighting, and environmental effects within virtual worlds for representing student feedback are presented. The data will be used to analyse what aesthetic components will be most effective when implementing the Representation Layer of the proposed architecture.",
keywords = "Adaptive, Games, Learner profile, Virtual worlds, Visualisation",
author = "Herbert, {Barry John Patrick} and Darryl Charles and Michael McNeill and Adrian Moore and M. Charles",
year = "2011",
month = oct,
day = "21",
language = "English",
series = "Proceedings of the European Conference on Games-based Learning",
pages = "691--702",
editor = "Michalis Meimaris and Dimitris Gouscos",
booktitle = "Proceedings of the 5th European Conference on Games Based Learning, ECGBL 2011",
note = "5th European Conference on Games Based Learning, ECGBL 2011 ; Conference date: 20-10-2011 Through 21-10-2011",
}