The development of a criteria Lst for the selection of 3D virtual worlds to design an educational environment

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to develop a criteria list to be considered during the selection of 3D virtual world platforms for educational purposes. As the first step in this process a draft list was created by the researchers based on literature review and heuristic investigation. the draft list was reviewed and revised by 2 internal and 4 external experts, and then used as a questionnaire. the items in the finalized criteria list were divided into three categories as follows: 50 items of technical specifications (system/program features, usability, software tools, multimedia tools, security, and cost), 21 items of interaction specifications (avatars, activities, communication tools) and 8 items of educational specifications (teaching/learning activities). Ultimately, the developed criteria list will be helpful for identifying and eliminating the deficiencies and constraints of virtual worlds used for educational purposes.