Somayeh, W4 Article Review

Kindergarten Teacher Training Through Virtual Reality: Three‐Dimensional Simulation Methodology 

 The aim of study:

The aim of this study is to determine the condition of virtual reality simulation model that designed to train kindergarten teachers in the understanding of kindergarten children's needs and perceptions. To find out how Information and Communication of Technology can contribute to the improvement of learning and teaching at all levels in the educational system. To investigate whether virtual reality three-dimensional simulation model can get the teachers the ability to better considering and understand children's perceptions and feelings as well as their cognitive and emotional needs or not.

The method of Study: 

Simulation and modeling. These simulations are based on a dynamic interaction between the learner and a computer program. The research sample consisted of 72 female kindergarten teachers in their first year of teaching after obtaining a degree in kindergarten. All 72 were engaged in a yearlong training course in the School of Education. They all participated in the research study. 37 were randomly chosen for the experimental group and 35 to the control group. A research questionnaire designed to examine the teachers’ understanding of children's feelings, needs and perceptions. 

Main Findings:  

IT is strongly suggested for teacher trainers to consider using virtual reality simulation models for training teachers in order to get a better result in the teacher-training process. According to statistical analysis of the data, we realized that those teachers who were trained in the virtual reality technology, they got more understanding of children's needs, emotional and perceptions than those trained through non-technological methods workshops. Research shows that virtual reality is an interactive computer-based environment in which the learner can engage deeply to experience learning in a motivating, interactive world. The results of this research study indicate that learning and instruction through three-dimensional simulation in a virtual world have that much potential to prepare kindergarten teachers more effectively and efficiently for their roles. It improves teachers’ abilities to assist children to develop the potential of learning and problem-solving behavior. Also, it provides teachers to strengthen their ability to help pupils in the stressful situation, like transitional problems of the educational system.