Assessing the Value of Virtual Worlds for Post- Secondary Instructors: A Survey of Innovators, Early Adopters and the Early Majority in Second Life

• DOI: 10.5281/zenodo.1061020
• Publication Date: 2009-07-29
• Authors: Kevin W. Bowers; Matthew W. Ragas; Jeffrey C. Neely
• Keywords: Early adopter; Value (mathematics)

The purpose of this study was to assess the value Second Life among post-secondary instructors with experience using as an educational tool. Using Everett Rogers's diffusion innovations theory, survey respondents (N = 162), were divided into three adopter categories: innovators, early adopters and majority. Respondents from 15 countries 25 academic disciplines, indicating considerable potential innovation has be adopted across many different borders in areas academe. Nearly 94% said they plan use again However, no significant differences found instructors' levels satisfaction tool or their perceived effect on student learning categories. On other hand, who conducted class fully significantly more satisfied than those used only a small supplement real-world class. Overall, personal interest factors, rather interpersonal communication most influenced respondents' decision adopt In light these findings, theoretical implications are discussed practical suggestions provided.