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Creating a Learning Culture
Author(s): Amy Susan Bruckman
Tags: Dec, 1994
Abstract: MOOSE Crossing is a text-based virtual world (or "MUD") designed to support the development of a "constructionist learning culture." (1) Children from a variety of geographic and cultural backgrounds will connect across the Internet to collaboratively build a virtual world. As part of this research, I am developing a new programming language (called MOOSE) and client interface (called MacMOOSE) designed to make it easier for children to create new places and objects. The virtual world, MOOSE Crossing, will be opened to 300-1000 children aged twelve and under on the Internet. Through analyzing the children's learning experiences, I will be able to explore the potential of the combination of construction and community. In what ways can community support and enhance constructionist learning? I will study the learning which takes place in this environment through two techniques. First, I will analyze the artifacts the children create and logs (recorded with informed consent) of what takes place in the virtual world. Second, I will work closely with one local group of children, and use an ethnographic methodology to explore their learning experiences. The goal of the MOOSE Crossing project is to create a new type of constructionist learning culture, and observe that culture to shed light on the power of the combination of construction and community.
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