Livestock and learning: evaluation of a prototype 3D virtual learning environment for livestock practitioners in India and Bolivia

Lin, Y., Heffernan, C., Thomson, K. and Nielsen, L. (2012) Livestock and learning: evaluation of a prototype 3D virtual learning environment for livestock practitioners in India and Bolivia. Information Development, 28 (4). pp. 261-270. ISSN 0266-6669 doi: 10.1177/0266666912444957

Abstract/Summary

Livestock are a key asset for the global poor. However, access to relevant information is a critical issue for both the poor and the practitioners who serve them. Therefore, the authors describe a web-based Virtual Learning Environment to disseminate educational materials on priority animal health constraints in Bolivia and India. The aim was to explore demand for 3D among development practitioners in the South. Two wider arguments from the ICT4D literature framed the analysis: the concept of 3D as a ‘lead technology’ and the relevance of Internet skills to the adoption of a 3D format. The results illustrated that neither construct influenced demand. Rather, study participants were ready adopters but desired greater levels of interaction and thereby, a more collaborative learning environment. Therefore, 3D has a number of potential benefits to enhance knowledge sharing among community practitioners in the Global South.

Item Type	Article
URI	https://reading-clone.eprints-hosting.org/id/eprint/27450
Identification Number/DOI	10.1177/0266666912444957
Refereed	Yes
Divisions	Life Sciences > School of Agriculture, Policy and Development > Department of International Development
Uncontrolled Keywords	livestock production; animal health; access to information; learning materials; 3D virtual learning environments; Bolivia; India
Publisher	Sage
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