supervisors: chandan dasgupta, alieke van dijk & robby van delden
Learning involves the use of the mind and body. Embodiment (use of body) enables us to use all our senses for learning something new and connecting it with what we already know. We regularly use embodied ways of learning (e.g., when we count on our fingers). Use of body-based resources opens up the possibilities of constructing new meaning and effective learning. Together with technologies like eXtended Reality and Virtual Reality, embodied learning can become a powerful way to learn. XR and VR environments enable learners to utilize and combine movement, gesture, and gaze and deeply engage in learning of complex topics and skills. Yet there is lack of research on understanding how such engagement plays out in a social setting. Thus, in this topic, we would like to explore a range of questions mentioned below (this is not an exhaustive list):
EXAMPLE RESEARCH QUESTIONS WITHIN THIS THEME:
- How do learners navigate a social XR/VR environment?
- What types of scaffolds do learners need to engage productively in embodied learning in a social setting?
- How do learners manage uncertainty in a social XR/VR environment?
- What self-regulated learning and socially shared regulation of learning (SSRL) strategies do learners use during embodied learning?
Note that familiarity with VR/XR is desirable. Most importantly, students interested in this topic should be willing to learn new technology.