Browsing by Author "Omieno, Kelvin K."

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Integrating virtual worlds and virtual learning environments in schools in developing economies
(International Journal of Information and Communication Technology Research, 2012) Omieno, Kelvin K.; Wanyembi, Gregory; Mbuguah, Samuel Mungai
In recent years there has been significant growth in the use of 3D virtual worlds for e-learning and distance education. Virtual learning environment (VLE) has achieved an adequate level of development and supports teaching and learning in an educational context, offering the functionality to manage the presentation, administration and assessment of coursework. This paper’s main philosophical claims are that virtuality is itself a bonafide mode of reality and that VLEs must be understood as a possible platform for effective and quality teaching, learning and training. The paper investigates the suitability of virtual learning in Higher Education Institutions in Africa. It also explains virtual reality principle, describes the interactive educational environment, highlights the challenges HEIs face in the traditional mode of delivery and discusses educational benefits of implementing virtual reality. A number of demonstrative examples showing how virtual world/virtual learning environments can be integrated will be shown and the potential opportunities that exist in this area discussed. The paper then proposes a model for integrating virtual world tools with the existing learning environments.
The role of wireless technologies in taking education to rural villages in developing countries
(International Journal of Information and Communication Technology Research, 2011) Wabwoba, Franklin; Omieno, Kelvin K.; Simiyu, Carolyne N.; Sisungo, Zipporah W.
The development of wireless technologies has generated a considerable amount of excitement among practitioners and academics because it results in shifting the academic environment from traditional classroom restricted setting to open schools. The use of wireless technologies may be very important in provision of improved quality education for rural parts of the developing nations that lack a number of necessary facilities. The study conducted a survey among teachers in primary schools with specific focus on the challenges of the conventional classroom setting in rural Kenya. From the findings of the study a framework of utilization of wireless technologies is proposed to help overcome some of the challenges. The paper highlights the possibilities and potentials of the wireless technologies for various functions in the rural schools through the use of short message service (SMS), podcasting, video and mobile Web services among other approaches. The paper aims at providing a reference point for decision-makers, planners, teachers and administrators of developing nations to guide them to the world of wireless technologies.