framework for the implementation of a virtual design studio model in ...

The Technological Layer
The second layer is the technological layer, consisting of all the
technological aspects that were used in the VDS 3. The VDS 3 main
aim was to formulae a framework for implementing VDS in design
education in the UAE to promote creativity and collaboration among the
students and to make sure the students absorb the skills required for the
future market. To facilitate this goal many 3D as well as 2D
technological applications were utilised. Facebook, Second Life,
Blackberries, the Web, video conferencing, blackboard and virtual tour
were all utilised to achieve that goal.
The webpage especially designed for the VDS 3 environment was
utilised as the main platform for the workshop. The VDS 3 web page
consists of links to all the other applications as well as containing some
of the main pedagogical features such as the workbook, the referencing
materials and the blog. As part of the curriculum requirements the
students were referred to the web page for gathering information and for
participation in the different activities such as the blogging. Some of the
activities in the workbook were made with the intention to keep the
students logging on to the web page and keep tracking the changes
(see Figure 6.11).
Figure 6.11: Web Site Home Page
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