Applying multiplayer role based learning in engineering education: three case studies to analyze the impact on students’ performance

Abstract

In this paper we present some results obtained in an ongoing research project aimed at developing a collaborative 3D fantasy virtual learning scenario (which we have given the name Nucleo) for teaching subjects related to computer programming in engineering education and technical schools. Our system has three basic objectives. The first is to induce a change in the students' attitude towards study by placing them at the center of the learning experience. The second is to increase students' motivation by bringing multimedia formats, content interactivity and the aesthetics currently preferred by engineering students into the learning scenario, while at the same time, maintaining a clear focus on the curriculum's learning objectives. The third is to provide a learning environment that simulates the way people work in teams in a real-life professional context, focusing on developing basic teamwork abilities and important soft and social skills. The system is currently being tested in several engineering educational contexts to prove some basic hypotheses. Here we describe the main features of our system, the results obtained in three different cases of study and a discussion about what conclusions can be drawn from them.