A Web-Based Multimedia Virtual Reality Environment for E-Learning

Abstract

The past decade has seen major advances in the availability of broadband computer access. With this everincreasing connection speed and improved Internet performance more and more web-based applications are becoming available. More complex graphics and multi-media can now be transmitted over the Internet relatively quickly in real-time and with little delay. One area where web-based applications have proved very successful in the past, is within the e-learning paradigm. Traditionally, online learning applications have used a text-based asynchronous format to deliver learning material to end-users. While this has proved successful, it is recognised that the social and collaborative experience plays an important role in education. This paper describes CLEVR, a Collaborative Learning Environment with Virtual Reality. CLEV-R is a web-based application, that takes advantage of an increased connection speed to deliver a real-time Virtual Reality (VR) environment where learning material is augmented through the use of multi-media. The environment mimics the real world where users, represented by avatars, take on various roles in the VR world.