Learning online with games, simulations, and virtual worlds : strategies for online instruction / Clark Aldrich.

Includes bibliographical references and index.

What are games, simulations, and virtual worlds really, and why should I care. Understanding highly interactive virtual environments -- Embracing interactivity -- Sims: a new model of content -- Highly interactive content from the students' and instructor's perspective -- Choosing and using a highly interactive virtual environment. Identifying the right approach for the right need -- Doing the prep work -- Integrating and piloting -- A brief example of a simulation deployment -- The processes of using a HIVE and the role of coaching -- Creating evaluation strategies -- Other considerations. Selling interactive environments internally : getting buy in from administrators, department heads, colleagues, parents and even students -- Epilogue: The new attraction of distance learning.