%0 Journal Article
	%A Laurie Mullen and  Jayne Beilke and  Nancy Brooks
	%D 2007
	%J International Journal of Educational and Pedagogical Sciences
	%B World Academy of Science, Engineering and Technology
	%I Open Science Index 11, 2007
	%T Redefining Field Experiences: Virtual Environments in Teacher Education
	%U https://publications.waset.org/pdf/10954
	%V 11
	%X The explosion of interest in online gaming and
virtual worlds is leading many universities to investigate
possible educational applications of the new environments.
In this paper we explore the possibilities of 3D online worlds
for teacher education, particularly the field experience
component. Drawing upon two pedagogical examples, we
suggest that virtual simulations may, with certain limitations,
create safe spaces that allow preservice teachers to adopt
alternate identities and interact safely with the “other." In so
doing they may become aware of the constructed nature of
social categories and gain the essential pedagogical skill of
perspective-taking. We suggest that, ultimately, the ability to
be the principal creators of themselves in virtual environments
can increase their ability to do the same in the real world.
	%P 605 - 611