Theoretical & Research Papers
The focus of this stream is on formal research which provides evidence of best practices for 3D virtual world teaching/learning. We are interested in a wide range of subjects. Topics can include, but are not limited to, use of technology of virtual worlds, virtual reality, augmented reality, distant and directed, blended or mixed environments, and/or use of gaming platform such as World of Warcraft (WoW) and other MMORPGs.
Papers submitted must be either:
- Published in a peer reviewed research journal no earlier than 24 months prior to the submission deadline, OR
- Jointly presented at VWBPE and submitted for review to the Journal of Virtual Studies for the 2012 issue.
Presentation Time: 50 minutes including Q&A Directors
- Abacus Capalini, CCCOnline, Center4EduPunx
- Douglas Jerolimov, University of Virginia
- Kavon Zenovka, VWBPE
 Open Submissions |
Peer Reviewed |
Best Practices Showcase
The focus of this stream is on distributing information regarding the use of virtual world technology for teaching/learning. No formal research is required. This stream provides anecdotal evidence of best practices. Proposals can focus on the use of technology in virtual worlds, virtual reality, augmented reality, distant and directed, blended, or mixed environments and or use of gaming platforms such as World of Warcraft (WoW) and other MMORPGs.
1. Best Practices Presentation
A traditional lecture style presentation focusing on best practices using virtual worlds in education.
Presentation Time: 50 minutes including Q&A
2. Workshops and Tutorials
Workshops and tutorials are intended to enhance the skills and knowledge of attendees. Sessions should be designed to introduce a framework for learning a new area or provide advanced technical training.
Proposals must include the purpose of the workshop or tutorial, clear description of the objectives, intended audience including the experience level and prerequisites, and virtual space requirements.
Presentation Time: 50 minutes including Q&A
3. Panel Presentations and Roundtables
A panel consisting of 2-4 people (including the chair) present their views on a common theme, issue, or question, and discuss them with participants. The presentation should provide an opportunity for participants to hear well-reasoned arguments about pertinent topics as seen from a variety of viewpoints. Presenters or panelists should take no more than 40, of the total 80 minutes, to make their case and then guide participants through a discussion and series of questions and answers.
Presentation Time: 80 minutes including Q&A
4. Tools and Products
Showcase new and innovative tools and products that enable educators to create teaching/learning and research environments, enhance learning, and enable virtual world participants to function with ease. This stream focuses on the newcomer and experienced practitioner to make informed choices in selecting tools and products.
Presentation Time: 80 minutes including Q&A
Directors- Abacus Capalini, CCCOnline, Center4EduPunx
- Kavon Zenovka, VWBPE
| Open Submissions |
Peer Reviewed |
Exploration of Virtual Worlds
Second Life is one of many virtual world technologies. This stream includes tours, orientations, and introductions to spaces in Second Life, other social virtual worlds or MMORPGS. Proposals should provide information regarding the virtual world to be visited, description of activities, and any requirements for participation.
Presentation Time: 20 minute intro + 90 minute tour including Q&A
- Abacus Capalini, CCCOnline, Center4EduPunx
- Stasia Weston, University of South Alabama
- Kavon Zenovka, VWBPE
| Open Submissions |
Peer Reviewed |
Games & Simulations
The focus of this stream is the development and implementation of specific activities, games, MMORPGs and simulated environments that increase learner interaction with others and increase engagement. If the presentation includes the participants visiting a specific location then please also include:
- Purpose of the demonstration
- Description of the activity in which participants will engage
- Clear description of the objectives
- Intended Audience
- Location where the activity can be found prior to the conference
- Special considerations for set-up/break-down
Presentation Time: Up to 110 minutes including Q&A.
If you are submitting a game or simulation for the Games and Simulations Fest, please include a .rtf file attachment with the following:
1) Title
2) Names of all creators of the game
3) Category of the game
4) Summary (max 500 words) This should include an explanation of the game play or simulation.
Directors
- Abacus Capalini, CCCOnline, Center4EduPunx
- Kavon Zenovka, VWBPE
| Open Submissions |
Peer Reviewed |
Posters
Poster sessions will provide educators, researchers, and developers with a forum where they can present and discuss their work and network with others working on similar projects. Space will be allocated to educational exhibitors to demonstrate their services or key projects. Space and prim specification will be given upon acceptance. Audio/visual will be available, but it is requested that use of sound be kept to a minimum.
Presentation Time: Poster presenters will be invited to set-up 72 hours prior to the conference opening. Poster areas can be left in place for up to 5 days post conference.
Directors- Abacus Capalini, CCCOnline, Center4EduPunx
- Kavon Zenovka, VWBPE
| Open Submissions |
Peer Reviewed |
Machinima
Machinima is video recorded real-time in interactive 3D virtual worlds and video games such as Second Life, World of Warcraft, and even Club Penguin. The purpose of this new stream is to promote the production and use of machinima and virtual film making in education. Machinima is a method that allows educators, researchers, and students to create content in a virtual environment. This content can then be used in traditional, blended, and virtual environments. This stream is for traditional conference presentations on the use of machinima in education. VWBPE will also be holding a Machinima Fest under its participatory events. Examples would include but are not limited to:
- Machinima in the classroom
- Teacher case studies
- Machinima discussions
- Networking sessions
- Guest machinima artists sharing techniques
Presentation Time: Not to exceed 110 minutes including Q & A.
Directors- Abacus Capalini, CCCOnline, Center4EduPunx
- Kavon Zenovka, VWBPE
| Open Submissions |
Peer Reviewed |
K-12
This stream of the conference focuses on K-12 student use of virtual worlds, created both by students and their teachers/advisors, as methods of learning. Participants will share their best practices, successes/learning moments, and projects and how they were able to engage students in learning opportunities. Students are also encourage to submit their projects as part of this stream. Examples would include but are not limited to:
- Youth and Technology (Discussion panel by teens for teens)
- Participatory and Democratic Learning
- Students as Content Creators
- Content Creation Challenge (Builds, tools, machinima, art)
- Combining Technologies (Blending Web and 3D)
- Virtual Fair (Demonstrations - science fair style poster sessions)
- Game Design
- Abacus Capalini, CCCOnline, Center4EduPunx
- Rurik Nackerud, Center for EduPunx, Concordia University, wirededucator.org, VW: Symposium
- Kavon Zenovka, VWBPE
| Open Submissions |
Peer Reviewed |
Invited Speakers
Directors- Abacus Capalini, CCCOnline, Center4EduPunx
- Kavon Zenovka, VWBPE
| Open Submissions |
Peer Reviewed |
Speaker Tours
Directors- Abacus Capalini, CCCOnline, Center4EduPunx
- Kavon Zenovka, VWBPE
| Open Submissions |
Peer Reviewed |
Keynote Tours
Directors- Abacus Capalini, CCCOnline, Center4EduPunx
- Kavon Zenovka, VWBPE
| Open Submissions |
Peer Reviewed |
Machinima Fest
Directors- Abacus Capalini, CCCOnline, Center4EduPunx
- Kavon Zenovka, VWBPE
| Open Submissions |
Peer Reviewed |