What is virtual reality and how do we conceptualize, create, use, and inquire into learning settings that capture the possibilities of virtual life? The International Handbook of Virtual Learning Environments was developed to explore Virtual Learning Environments (VLE s), and their relationships with digital, in real life and virtual worlds.

Three issues are explored and used as organizers for The Handbook. First, a distinction is made between virtual learning and learning virtually. Second, since the focus is on learning, an educational framework is developed as a means of...

How do calendars and clocks influence considerations of school effectiveness? From the creation of compulsory education to the future of virtual schooling, Weiss and Brown trace two centuries of school practices, policies and research linking the concept of time with 'opportunity to learn'. School calendars and clocks are shaped by both the physical and social worlds, and the 'clock of schooling' is shown to be one of the 'great clocks of society' that helps to frame school effectiveness. School time does not operate in a vacuum, but within curriculum, teaching and learning situations. The...

How do calendars and clocks influence considerations of school effectiveness? From the creation of compulsory education to the future of virtual schooling, Weiss and Brown trace two centuries of school practices, policies and research linking the concept of time with 'opportunity to learn'. School calendars and clocks are shaped by both the physical and social worlds, and the 'clock of schooling' is shown to be one of the 'great clocks of society' that helps to frame school effectiveness. School time does not operate in a vacuum, but within curriculum, teaching and learning situations. The...