A MUVE Towards PBL Writing: Effects of a Digital Learning Environment Designed To Improve Elementary Student Writing
Scott J. Warren and Mary Jo Dondlinger
University of North Texas
Sasha A. Barab
Indiana University
Abstract
Two major obstacles to using problem-based learning methods with writing in elementary
school classrooms are the time it takes to design the learning environment and the time required
for students to interact at their own pace with ill-structured problems used to spur student
writing. This study examined whether game elements could be used along with Problem Based
Learning (PBL) in a digital learning environment to improve student writing. Results from
this study included statistically significant decreases in teacher time spent answering procedural
and directional questions, increased voluntary student writing, and improved standardized
achievement scores on writing tasks.
 Download the full article (PDF)
Contributors
Scott Warren works as an assistant professor of Learning Technologies at the
University of North Texas. Dr. Warren holds a PhD in Instructional Systems
Technology and his research examines the use of emerging online technologies
such as podcasting, immersive digital learning environments, digital video, and
open source course management tools in support of developing complex instructional
systems.
Sasha Barab is an associate professor in Learning Sciences, Instructional Systems
Technology and Cognitive Science at Indiana University. He also holds
the Barbara Jacobs Chair of Education and Technology. His current work involves
the research and development of rich learning environments, frequently
with the aid of technology, that are designed to assist children in developing
their sense of purpose as individuals, as members of their communities, and
as knowledgeable citizens of the world.
Mary Jo Dondlinger is an instructional designer at Richland College and a
doctoral student in Educational Computing at the University of North Texas.
Contact
Scott J. Warren
University of North Texas
1300 Highland Street, Matthews Hall 322C,
PO Box 310530, Denton, TX 76203-1335
swarren@unt.edu
Sasha A. Barab
Indiana University-Bloomington
sbarab@indiana.edu
Mary Jo Dondlinger
University of North Texas
mdondlinger@unt.edu
Copyright 2008, (International Society for Technology in Education). All rights reserved.
|
