The WiloStar3D Creativity theory known as ICAN!, has emerged from the author’s decade of experience teaching students in grades 4-12 in 3D educational virtual world environments.
The fundamental idea underlying the WiloStar3D Creativity Theory is that students must be meaningfully engaged in 3D learning activities through interaction with others and actively involved in the creative process for meaningful learning to take place.
While in principle, the ICAN theory could occur without the use of virtual reality technology, I believe that 3D virtual reality technology facilitates creativity in ways which are difficult to achieve otherwise.
Stimulated by what I have witnessed over the last decade teaching students in a 3D immersive setting and encouraged by the writings of Dewey, Bruner, Piaget, and Papert, I have developed strategies that require students to take a more active role in the learning process with a primary focus on the creative process itself.
The WiloStar3D Creativity Theory is a conceptual framework that drives the pedagogical fostering of constructivist learning in K-12 Virtual Worlds.
WiloStar3D stands for illuminating thought and helping students understand that within each and everyone of them, they have an inner light of knowledge that can shine out. It does not need to be contained within the walls of a classroom or subdued by teaching to standardized testing.
WiloStar3D shines in the universe as a beacon of hope and learning to show students they have their own creative potentials that can be shared and expressed. Uniqueness is valued and treasured. Creativity is gold. Imagination is fostered and cherished.
