Narrative, Machinima and Cognitive Realism: Constructing an Authentic Real World Learning Experience for Law Students

Australasian Journal of Educational Technology, 33(1), pp. 148-162.

QUT – Law and Justice Research Paper No. 17-07

17 Pages Posted: 5 Jul 2017

See all articles by Anne F Matthew

Anne F Matthew

Queensland University of Technology - Faculty of Law

Desmond Butler

Queensland University of Technology - Faculty of Law

Date Written: 2017

Abstract

In Australian law schools didactic pedagogies such as lectures devoted to the transmission of theory and knowledge to a largely passive audience still predominate. However, curriculum design embedding authentic learning pedagogies has been shown to be supportive of student learning. The challenge in adopting such curriculum design is how to offer situated cognitive learning opportunities on a large scale to increasingly diverse cohorts. This paper is a case study of a blended learning approach introduced into a second year undergraduate law unit to teach negotiation theory and practice to a large cohort of students studying in full-time, part-time and distance external modes. This innovation was situated in an authentic simulated learning environment created through careful design of a high-fidelity scenario, utilising a narrative depicted by Second Life machinima video and simulated documentation. This approach resulted in greater student engagement and improved learning outcomes.

Keywords: Narrative, Machinima, Cognitive Realism, cognitive reality, Second Life, pedagogy, law, law students, trusts, curriculum, design, curriculum design, authentic learning, teaching, learning, technology, real world, learning environment, situated learning, diverse cohorts, blended learning, higher educ

JEL Classification: K00, K10

Suggested Citation

Matthew, Anne F and Butler, Desmond, Narrative, Machinima and Cognitive Realism: Constructing an Authentic Real World Learning Experience for Law Students (2017). Australasian Journal of Educational Technology, 33(1), pp. 148-162., QUT – Law and Justice Research Paper No. 17-07, Available at SSRN: https://ssrn.com/abstract=2996875

Anne F Matthew (Contact Author)

Queensland University of Technology - Faculty of Law ( email )

Level 4, C Block Gardens Point
2 George St
Brisbane, QLD 4000
Australia

Desmond Butler

Queensland University of Technology - Faculty of Law ( email )

Level 4, C Block Gardens Point
2 George St
Brisbane, QLD 4000
Australia

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