Learning as your alter ego

Never in my life did I think I would ever express my ideas through a cartoon character...but then I found Voki.  Here I could create a cartoon image of myself without the need for pen or paper or even artistic talent! 

Why would I want to do this you ask?  Why not I say in response!  Who wouldn't want to showcase themselves online as a younger self, superhero or even bunny rabbit?



While I can see the value in just having a fun engaging experience as an educator, for my students I believe avatars can help to practice for a presentation or even become part of the presentation for learners that hesitate to be put in the spotlight.  One benefit of the virtual world avatar image is that users can complete tasks that may initially seen as difficult for themselves within a real world setting (Falloon, 2010). 


A second way that this educational strategy could be beneficial in the adult education classroom is as a narrator for online tutorials.  Not only can the image be altered, but the voice as well.  Simply choose another option from the drop down list and the voice shared can change from a female to male, young to old within a backdrop of a variety global languages and accent levels.

 
Reference

Falloon, G. (2010). Using avatars and virtual environments in learning: What do they have to offer?. British Journal Of Educational Technology, 41(1), 108-122. doi:10.1111/j.1467-8535.2009.00991.x