Libraries and Immersive Learning in 3D Virtual Environments
The Graduate School of Library and Information Science, at the University of Illinois in Urbana-Champaign, is pleased to offer a new non-credit, continuing education course this fall.
Libraries and Immersive Learning in 3D Virtual Environments
Course description: What skills and techniques from other disciplines do librarians need to learn/use/modify, in order to take the library forward to its future incarnations? One of the hot topics in the world of MUVE’s, MMORPG’s, and game-based education is Immersive Learning (IL). Immersive Learning uses the ability of environments to supply information, and to engage more of the learner’s cognitive “package” than does a traditional read-lecture-and-discuss format. This course will begin by examining a few basic concepts of IL and looking at Second Life as an IL environment. The majority of the class will explore ways that librarians can support IL classes and how librarianship can incorporate IL into its practices: LIS education, providing information and education to patrons, etc.
Week One: Introduction to immersive learning
Week Two: Second Life as an immersive learning environment
Week Three: Immersive education in virtual space
Week Four: Technologies of learning
Week Five: Immersive learning library programs
Week Six: Immersive reference services
Audience: Open to anyone interested in learning more about libraries and learning/teaching in virtual worlds. Experience in Second Life is strongly recommended.
Instructors: J. Jacobson (JJ Drinkwater) and S. Thompson (Hypatia Dejavu)
Section One: October 31; November 7, 14, 28; December 5 and 12 from 8:00 – 10:00 am SL (10:00 am – 12:00 pm central)
Section Two: November 1, 8, 15, 29; December 6 and 13 from 6:00 – 8:00 pm SL (8:00 – 10:00 pm central)
Cost: $250
For additional information and to register: http://www.lis.uiuc.edu/programs/cpd/Immersive_Learning.html