Making Web3D less scary: Toward easy-to-use Web3D e-Learning content development tools for educators

Penny de Byl argues that one of the biggest challenges facing educators today is the integration of rich and immersive three-dimensional environments with existing teaching and learning materials. To empower educators with the ability to embrace emerging Web3D technologies, the Advanced Learning and Immersive Virtual Environment (ALIVE) research and development laboratory at the University of Southern Queensland is developing easy-to-use drag-and-drop 3D e-learning tools built upon game engine technology. ALIVE is intended to reduce the need for technological experts in the creation of online, immersive multistudent e-learning environments and to provide simple tools that will allow educators to teach with prefabricated or customized embedded three-dimensional applications. This article describes the motivations behind ALIVE, details some of the tools being developed, and presents examples of how these tools have been used to facilitate e-learning. (Contains 5 exhibits and 1 figure.)