Virtual Explorers
Discover how interactive storytelling in virtual worlds can inspire, educate and empower.
Research shows that narrative-based learning enhances knowledge retention, critical thinking, and student engagement. A study published in Learning and Instruction found that students learning through interactive storytelling demonstrated improved problem-solving skills and deeper comprehension1 (Perry et al., 2019). Another study highlights that role-playing games (RPGs)—a natural extension of narrative learning—can increase motivation, collaboration, and decision-making skills in learners2 (Dicheva et al., 2022).
RPGs are more than fantasy adventures—they are infinitely adaptable. They provide a framework where any subject, time period, or perspective can be explored through interaction designed to demonstrate comprehension. For too long, technical barriers limited who could tell stories in this medium, but that is no longer the case. Seasoned development platforms, generative AI tools, and affordable asset libraries make it possible for small groups, with even smaller budgets, to create meaningful experiences.
Today’s students are already there—exploring, creating, collaborating, and problem-solving in ways we’ve never seen before. As of Q3 2024, Roblox, our primary development platform, had over 88.9 million daily active users globally with its fastest-growing demographic being users between the ages of 17 and 24. (Statista) The time is right, our bags are packed, the only question that remains is—are you ready to join the exploration?
References
1 Perry, M., Samuelson, K., & Weston, J. (2019). The impact of interactive storytelling on student problem-solving and engagement. Learning and Instruction, 62, 1213-1220.
2 Dicheva, D., Dichev, C., Agre, G., & Angelova, G. (2022). Gamification in education: Role-playing games as tools for student engagement. Smart Learning Environments, 9(1), 1-15. Retrieved from slejournal.springeropen.com
Our Platforms
Virtual Explorers focus on platforms that are user-friendly, cost-effective, and versatile enough to support a variety of learning objectives. We choose tools with strong community support, extensive tutorials, helpful plugins, and clear documentation, ensuring explorers can confidently manage and expand their projects long after our initial exploration.
Platforms We Support
Twine:
A free, open-source tool for creating interactive, nonlinear stories, often used in prototyping interactive narratives by allowing writers and designers to quickly map out branching dialogue, choices, and story logic in a visual, text-based format.
Roblox:
A versatile platform for building collaborative 3D environments with interactive spaces, object collection, and structured tasks.
ChatGPT (AI):
An AI-powered platform for generating story elements, dialogue, and interaction details. ChatGPT helps enhance the narrative and interactive aspects of virtual experiences while ensuring content aligns with learning objectives.
By combining Twine, Roblox and ChatGPT for AI-driven content generation, The Virtual Explorers deliver engaging, adaptable, and scalable learning experiences that are directly tied to educational goals.
The Virtual Explorers are always eager to explore new platforms as they emerge. However, we carefully evaluate each tool to ensure it offers long-term value, broad accessibility, and the ability to create meaningful learning experiences. By being thoughtful and deliberate in our choices, we stay innovative while providing reliable and sustainable solutions that meet the needs of our fellow explorers.