SimAULA is a project, focused on the development of a virtual practicum for teacher training in the form of a 3D virtual world. Both current and future teachers will have the opportunity to interact with avatar-students, develop lesson plans and teach in virtual classrooms. In order to design interesting and effective learning activities that are close to the real teaching and learning practices, this project focuses on the pedagogical side of virtual simulations, based on the expertise of teachers, educational experts and psychologists. Thus a variety of behavioral models of avatar-students can be created, which will provide a platform for the development of situations and simulations that are educationally sound and scientifically proven.
SimAULA will benefit from the technology of so-called ‘serious games’ to make the learning scenario more interesting and engaging for the practicing future teachers. Through simulations they will be able to apply various teaching and learning strategies and classroom management skills in a safe and fun environment. The result from the SimAULA project would be an educational platform which will provide Universities and schools an innovative virtual platform for professional training, enabling the formation of reliable knowledge, skills and competencies to work in real and various educational contexts.
SimAULA will benefit from the technology of so-called ‘serious games’ to make the learning scenario more interesting and engaging for the practicing future teachers. Through simulations they will be able to apply various teaching and learning strategies and classroom management skills in a safe and fun environment. The result from the SimAULA project would be an educational platform which will provide Universities and schools an innovative virtual platform for professional training, enabling the formation of reliable knowledge, skills and competencies to work in real and various educational contexts.
