USQ are doing some interesting things in the Virtual World space with AliveX3D. AliveX3D includes a Scene Editor that allows both students and lecturers to collaborate on models. With an objective to “apply the open source and Web 2.0 ethos to future e-Learning applications”, I don’t think the project can go wrong. A rich set of examples are available, these include:

• Hybrid 2D and 3D content in course content
• Multi-user Real-Time Collaboration
• Navigating 3D via 2D Hyperlinks embedded in content
• Educational games (Safety and Maths games)

I discovered AliveX3D via a paper published in the Turkish Online Journal of Distance Education: A WEB 2.0/WEB3D HYBRID PLATFORM FOR ENGAGING STUDENTS IN E-LEARNING ENVIRONMENTS

Its just nice to see an Australian Uni spending money to research and develop e-learning applications!!! I hope the project receives Carrick funding.