Mark Childs – författare

The Global Collaboration initiatives related in this book are examples of how educators have experimented with different mechanisms to provide science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) education programmes through information and communication technologies. In many cases, these programmes have looked at the allied personal communication and collaboration skills that students of these subjects also need: the so-called STEM+ curriculum.

In particular, these approaches to STEM+ provision show how the internationalization of education can be made more effective and accessible through the exploitation of collaborative technologies and non-traditional pedagogies. The approaches address the following themes:

An international perspective is made possible within the book through the inclusion of authors from North America, Europe and Asia. These authors present case studies from technology-enhanced learning projects over the past six years.

The Global Collaboration initiatives related in this book are examples of how educators have experimented with different mechanisms to provide science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) education programmes through information and communication technologies. In many cases, these programmes have looked at the allied personal communication and collaboration skills that students of these subjects also need: the so-called STEM+ curriculum.

In particular, these approaches to STEM+ provision show how the internationalization of education can be made more effective and accessible through the exploitation of collaborative technologies and non-traditional pedagogies. The approaches address the following themes:

An international perspective is made possible within the book through the inclusion of authors from North America, Europe and Asia. These authors present case studies from technology-enhanced learning projects over the past six years.

Since the publication of the companion volume Researching Learning in Virtual Worlds in 2010, there has been a growth not only in the range and number of educational initiatives taking place in virtual worlds, but also in the depth of analysis of the nature of that education. Understanding Learning in Virtual Worlds reflects those changes through a collection of chapters that are extended versions of research presented at the second Researching Learning in Virtual Environments conference (ReLIVE 11), an international conference hosted by the Open University UK.

Included in this book are chapters that explore the philosophical and methodological underpinnings of understanding learning in virtual worlds, identify and analyse the factors that support learning in these environments, and present case studies that demonstrate some of the various ways in which virtual worlds can be applied to facilitate learning and teaching. The links between learning in a virtual world and learning in the physical world are made apparent throughout, and the authors reveal how understanding learning in one informs the other. Understanding Learning in Virtual Worlds is an important book not only to those who teach in virtual worlds, but to anyone for whom understanding learning, in all its forms, is of interest.

The first story, "Hereafter Life After Life," presents Solomon, responsible for overseeing the arrival of the newly deceased at the Gate of Judgment. The narrative covers the judgment process and the separation of memories from the spiritual essence and focuses on themes of purification and redemption.

Much of the anthology explores the darker aspects of the afterlife, with vivid descriptions of the Dredge, a sealed underground prison for the most tainted souls.

Little Johnny, a noteworthy story, contrasts the otherworldly themes of the book. It follows Jonathon William Green, or Little Johnny, through his turbulent childhood in Greenwich Village during the hippie revolution. The narrative blends humour and poignancy, depicting life in a chaotic and unconventional setting.

Overall, this compelling anthology weaves together themes of life, death, and the afterlife, blending humour, tragedy, and hope. Each story adds depth to the overarching narrative, making it a thought-provoking and engaging read. If you enjoy exploring different perspectives on existential themes, this book is worth your time.