LEARNING CONSTRUCTION PROJECT MANAGEMENT IN THE VIRTUAL WORLD: LEVERAGING ON SECOND LIFE

The paper presents potential utilization of Second Life((C)) (SL) in enhancing learning/training construction project management. The virtual environment supports the learning process by enabling learner to visualize the construction projects in 3D. Furthermore, SL provides an excellent platform for learners to interact with their peers and mentors in this virtual environment for exploring the learning activities collectively. The learners, as a group, learn more effectively by using virtual environment where they can get involve in life-cycle of a building project i.e., from conceptual design to completion stage dealing with major issues like resources, cost, quality and time. Project-based learning is an appropriate paradigm for addressing construction project management problems. The dynamic nature of SL provides an excellent platform for learner groups to interact and go through various aspects of the building project collaboratively. The virtual environment of SL supports the learning process by quick and easy visualization the construction projects. Furthermore, SL provides virtual environment for learners where they can interact with their peers and mentors for exploring the learning activities collectively. SL is a truly global venue where participants from across the world can be invited to work collaboratively and to provide feedback on construction projects. This interactive approach toward construction projects helps in sharing experiences and improving quality of understanding of the real life issues in construction project management in virtual environment, eventually eliminating risks of making costly mistakes on site. This paper highlights the benefits and challenges of the application of SL for learning construction project management. Findings of this study were validated through active feedback collected from a group of learners using SL in an academic environment. Furthermore, this study also contributed to knowledge as the findings of this research can be used by future researchers to carry out studies on the similar application of virtual reality for fostering strong learner involvement in the learning process. The study would be beneficial for building professionals involved in the academia in general.