Timothy Collinson

Virtual Worlds in Computing Education

This article reports on the use of a virtual world (Second Life) in computing education, and identifies the precursors of current virtual world systems. The article reviews the potential for virtual worlds as tools in computing education. It describes two areas where Second Life has been used in computing education: as a development environment; as a collaboration tool and to provide a environment for simulation. The benefits of virtual worlds for computing education (with a particular emphasis on Second Life) are discussed. Qualitative feedback from students is reported which, although not definitive, illustrates many of the benefits and disadvantages of using virtual worlds in computing education.

The Alternative Library

Much time and effort has been devoted to designing and developing library Web sites that are easy to navigate by both new students and experienced researchers. In a review of the Southampton Institute Library it was decided that in addition to updating the existing homepage an alternative would be offered. Drawing on theory relating to user interface design, learning styles and creative thinking, an Alternative Library navigation system was added to the more traditional library homepage. The aim was to provide students with a different way to explore and discover the wide range of information resources available by taking a less formal approach to navigation based on the metaphor of physical space and playful exploration.

Library e-induction: alleviating anxiety with digital doughnuts: a case study

Abstract This case study will explore some innovative methods of library induction at a higher education library in the UK, Southampton Solent University, looking particularly at e-induction and alternative approaches to the management of library anxiety. The induction programme includes features that are modular, interactive and - most particularly -student centred. They cater for a variety of preferences, including video, audio, text based and multi-media options. The variety of approaches taken by the Library’s blended induction package will be demonstrated. From the standard type of induction such as physical, virtual, self-guided and audio tours, to the perhaps ‘less usual’ including an alternative library with roof garden and doughnut machine. We will reflect on how all these approaches have worked together to assist new library users make the step up to this part of their information literate lives. In particular we would wish to differentiate between options appropriate to the induction stage, at which students are overcoming initial emotional barriers created by anxiety, and later stages when they are more receptive to, and better able to benefit from, in-depth e-literacy training. How this fits into the wider University “spiral induction programme” - a recently introduced system of spreading university induction over a number of weeks rather than cramming everything into a few hectic days - will also be considered. In addition we will explore possible further research avenues such as ‘the doughnut line’ (a statistical measure) and a game based interactive learning experience designed to help overcome library anxiety.

A virtual library world for pre-entry university students

The University of Portsmouths pre-entry project, PrepUp, contains a Library section which endeavours to use simple graphics and a virtual world metaphor to acculturate students to the University Library before they begin their course. Using graphical elements it contains informative items and fun features to encourage exploration and discovery. Usage and feedback suggest that this is a useful addition to the project which engages students and assists them in getting to grips with their early days at University.