Adult Learning and Virtual Worlds Simulations

This chapter will explore conditions for meaningful adult learning and explain how virtual environments and in-world simulations enable or discourage the development of intellectual skills in adults. Adult learners possess particular characteristics that should influence instructional designs. Issues that affect learning in the real-world are also found in the virtual world. Particular problems of cognitive and cultural dissonance in the virtual environment, finding and creating meaningful simulations, and protecting the fidelity of authentic simulations in a public space are discussed. Recommendations and future research directions are provided.