%0 Journal Article
%@ 1438-8871
%I Gunther Eysenbach
%V 10
%N 3
%P e26
%T Versatile, Immersive, Creative and Dynamic Virtual 3-D Healthcare Learning Environments: A Review of the Literature
%A Hansen,Margaret M
%+ School of Nursing, University of San Francisco, 2130 Fulton Street, San Francisco, CA 94117 , USA, +1 415-422-2017, mhansen@usfca.edu
%K Education
%K Healthcare
%K Technology
%D 2008
%7 1.9.2008
%9 Review
%J J Med Internet Res
%G English
%X The author provides a critical overview of three-dimensional (3-D) virtual worlds and “serious gaming” that are currently being developed and used in healthcare professional education and medicine. The relevance of this e-learning innovation for teaching students and professionals is debatable and variables influencing adoption, such as increased knowledge, self-directed learning, and peer collaboration, by academics, healthcare professionals, and business executives are examined while looking at various Web 2.0/3.0 applications. There is a need for more empirical research in order to unearth the pedagogical outcomes and advantages associated with this e-learning technology. A brief description of Roger’s Diffusion of Innovations Theory and Siemens’ Connectivism Theory for today’s learners is presented as potential underlying pedagogical tenets to support the use of virtual 3-D learning environments in higher education and healthcare. 
%R 10.2196/jmir.1051
%U http://www.jmir.org/2008/3/e26/
%U https://doi.org/10.2196/jmir.1051