Title: Web Based Virtual Worlds Coming of Age

Date: 18 September 2019

Presenter: Dieter Heyne (Avatar: Edward Tarber)

Event: Virtual World MOOC 2019

Where: Online

The presenter explained how they started their web based

virtual world, CybaLounge, which can run in every major

browser.

The following features and benefits were discussed

• General benefits
• Benefits for educators
• Basic features
• Communication features
• Security features and
• Advanced features.

The presenter further explained that in future the

avatars will have finger movements and facial expressions.

I have not yet connected with the presenter but with other

participants on the chat box. We were provided with

addresses which I used to enter the virtual world and I was

so impressed. Some of the questions I had were

answered through FAQs .

As a Physical Science teacher, I had questions relating the

number and safety of learners for practical work , and the

cost of apparata. The major question of having practical

work was answered by the presenter when he talked about

the physics engine, where simulations behave as in real life.

My interest to learn to teach online was enhanced. I think

through virtual worlds learners will not feel isolated as I

thought before.

I am fascinated by the way virtual worlds are leading teaching

and learning were teachers will be elated to teach and learners

excited to learn.

The major challenge in countries like mine is the infrastructure.

The cost of data is still too high, more especially for low income

communities.

I believe that access of data is no more a want but a need just

like water. Data need to be freely available to all and teachers

to be retrained.

I am inspired to learn more about online teaching and learning

which includes the use of virtual worlds.

I would like to understand more about virtual world especially

web based virtual worlds.