Virtual World-Based Information Security Learning: Design and Evaluation

Abstract

ABSTRACT There has been a growing interest and enthusiasm for the application of virtual worlds in learning and training. This research proposes a design framework of a virtual world-based learning environment that integrates two unique features of the virtual world technology, immersion and interactivity, with an instructional strategy that promotes self-regulatory learning. We demonstrate the usefulness and assess the e?ectiveness of our design in the context of information security learning. In particular, the information security learning module implemented in Second Life was incorporated into an Introduction to Information Security course. Data from pre- and post- learn-ing surveys were used to evaluate the e?ectiveness of the learning module. Overall, the results strongly suggest that the virtual world-based learning environment enhances information security learning, thus supporting the e?ectiveness of the proposed design framework. Additional results suggest that learner traits have an important in?uence on learning outcomes through perceived enjoyment. The study o?ers useful design and implementation guidelines for organizations and universities to develop a virtual world-based learning environment. It also rep-resents an initial step towards the design and explanation theories of virtual world-based learning environments.