Research in Virtual Environments - Update

My quest continues to apply existing research findings from my doctoral program. Progress has been made to create my own virtual world regions and incorporate artful freebees available via Creative Commons licensing. Family members have joined in to experience virtual field trips and communities across distance. Fusion Unlimited Networks Research was incorporated as a non-profit company in March 2014 to use simulation for philanthropy. In May, I joined colleagues to work part-time at UCF's Institute for Simulation & Training in METIL. A huge milestone was the publication of my dissertation by Proquest in October 2014. For anyone who is interested, a .pdf document is available from the CIRET website. Naturally, my virtual region has to become a tribute to space exploration and marine exploration, and well.. all exploration!

Delightful's Region on Kitely

Discovering new pathways of inquiry are sought to design research questions regarding virtual experiences. Possibilities abound as the OpenSim platform and community matures. Many researchers are trying to become versed in multiple platforms, exchanging knowledge along the way. Another great way to learn is from children of course. Some of my grand-children are old enough now to join me together in the same place or apart to gather virtually. We have created memories to treasure of shared, virtual experiences more meaningful with loved ones. Cross-generational learning is feasible to assist the aging and maturing population.

Discussing Lego Camp Together at a Distance

Creating and participating in mirror worlds offer the potential for using virtual environments for training. The challenge has been how to inexpensively create models and environments. Continued involvement with the MOSES OpenSim community afforded the opportunity to learn about a scanning project of the actual location where I work. Participating in making the machinima below was a bonding event in itself. I cannot wait to learn the digital literacies to get behind the camera and make stories myself. Considering the talent and generosity within the community, it won't be long for me to learn. Many people are excited to make stuff to print in 3D. I want scan stuff to put into 3D worlds. Again, the possibilities are promising.

Richness Afforded by Avatar Use

Do we really have a common definition of avatars? Many people think of the movie Avatar that featured a man inhabiting the form of another species where he was required to take on characteristics of that being while overcoming his own human limitations. This notion of avatars seems partially true.

Avatars to me represent an interplay with 'self' that is as diverse as the personalities of the people whom inhabit their avatars. Of course not all people inhabit thier avatar, if they have one at all. Much more research is needed on identity, but it is clear that the leaders who foster communities across distance and time zones often use avatars. These communities provide the glue that connects annual events like conferences.

Speaking of avatars, The Virtual Education Journal of the International Society of Technology in Education's Virtual Environments Network features some profiles of educators who are often tireless scouts of new media and technology. The issue is called My Avatar and Me. Check it out:

Towards Transdisciplinarity: A Research Quest

The quest is on to identify the most collaborative groups in virtual environments to collect data for my dissertation study. No doubt I will miss many. By December, the results will be compiled and ready to share. I am relishing the ability to be a full-time doctoral researcher after experiencing a reduction in force on my new job. Fortunately while I was in Texas I was able to meet with Dr. Larry Johnson, CEO of the New Media Consortium, and attend the national conference of the International Society of Technology in Education (ISTE) in San Antonio where I got to hear Dr. Jane McGonigal and meet friends from SIGVE and the Gamesmooc.

Here is a little video I made to introduce myself to those who do not know me. I will begin sharing more findings from research into collaboration using virtual environments as I progress. These environments will connect to physical environments, simulators, and big data. Pioneering virtual community learning environments is a passion of mine. I cannot wait to apply what I have learned in my newest doctoral program. It's been 12 years since being unable to finish the first doctoral program. Slides used for my dissertation defense are also linked below. Stay tuned for results and thank you for your interest.

Btruman prosp defense-slideshare from Barbara Truman

If you are a user of virtual environments and you collaborate using an avatar or character, please feel free to participate in my dissertation study. More information can be found on my web site that includes definitions and a link to the survey and informed consent. The survey will be closed on November 5, 2013.