Scenario-Based MUVEs in the Science Classroom: Pre-service teachers’ perspectives

This paper presents the findings of a study on the understanding and attitudes of pre-service teachers in the use of scenario-based multi-user virtual environments in science education. The pre-service teachers involved in this study used a scenario-based multi-user virtual environment as part of a lecture on problem-based learning in science education and were then required to complete an open-ended questionnaire. Data from the questionnaire indicated that gender and current computer game use were both likely to have an effect the future use of virtual worlds in a classroom setting. Behavior management was also seen as a concern to pre-service teachers. The results of the study indicate that teachers are both aware of virtual worlds and have an understanding of both their potential advantages and challenges within a classroom setting.