GEARS a 3D Virtual Learning Environment and Virtual Social and Educational World Used in Online Secondary Schools

Virtual Learning Environments (VLEs) are becoming increasingly popular in online education environments and have multiple pedagogical advantages over more traditional approaches to education. VLEs include 3D worlds where students can engage in simulated learning activities such as Second Life. .....However, to date, VLEs have been very limited in use for K-12 education. One option for secondary schools was developed by Game Environment Applying Real Skills (GEARS) and can be used in online or traditional schools. The 3D VLE is named ARC: The Impending Gale. ....... educational games focus on basic concepts in the three disciplines of math, social studies, and language arts. ..... National Network of Digital Schools: http://nndsonline.org/ Lincoln Interactive Curriculum: http://www.lincolninteractive.com/ Game Environment Applying Real Skills: http://gears.nndsonline.org/ 3D Virtual Social and Educational World: http://www.learnwithfriends.com