Using a virtual world to aid overseas PGT orientation

Abstract

The Virtual St Andrews (ViStA) project aims to embed students within a Virtual Environment which duplicates, as near as possible, the real University’s centre, functions and social areas. The main project objectives are to allow Postgraduate Taught students, especially international students who only have one year to acculturate, work, socialize and graduate, to experience a pre-arrival orientation, meeting current and prospective students online as well as learning where designated staff and buildings are. The hypothesis that drives the research and virtual world development, is that online activities reduce acclimatisation stress and improve socialization, well being and study readiness. The project aim is to develop a Virtual World through which prospective or incoming students can learn about the University, talk to current students, seek advice and complete tasks that lead them through the orientation process. The world is growing organically through student projects and staff additions.