Framework for designing and evaluating three-dimensional multi-user virtual environments for effective system and task performances with further applications for second language learning

The present study focused on designing and evaluating the initial development of a 3-dimensional multi-user virtual environment in accordance with selected principles of design. The design was developed in the context of second language learning. The instructional design was founded on principles of Communicative Language Teaching, and Cognitive Science. Principles for effective system and task performance guided the technological design. The design was accomplished in the web-based 3-dimensional world developing platform: Active Worlds Educational Universe (AWEDU). Additional computer applications were used to custom design the architecture and world signs, capture and export narration in MP3 format and develop the project's website as support for expert evaluators. A heuristic evaluation with severity rating was conducted over the world entry area and the path connecting all designed locations. The evaluation aimed at identifying problems in system and task performance. The outcomes of the evaluation showed several problems that affected the design and prompted the development of new principles for effective task performance to assist developers of web-based 3D-MUVEs. One set of principles generated fosters effective alignment of purpose within and across all levels of the design and with the main goal being the environment. A second set of principles promotes design which eases object recognition and concept formation of unknown objects, while a third principle set aims at facilitating user understanding of operation of environment's features. Additional considerations led to including spatial orientation as a component of wayfinding to aid users in developing a mental image of the environment and thus easing the latter. Recommendations include the continued development of this particular virtual environment considering the newly identified principles for interface design. Recommendations for future research would involve studying the level of user understanding about the design and its operational features, as well as navigational preferences of the audience for which the design is intended. Once the virtual environment incorporates further levels of instructional content and experiences, a heuristic evaluation followed by user testing will allow the identification of design problems in instructional areas before it reaches the end users and determine its ability to assist students in second language acquisition.