Second Life is a virtual world that I have heard about, but just recently entered. I have met some teachers that utilize Second Life and wondered just how could the SL virtual world be utilized in virtual education. While reading through a few articles I found 101 Uses for Second Life in the College Classroom. The article not only gives suggested lessons that can be taught in Second Life, but list numerous resources for more information.
Private islands are available that can be used as a closed area for your students only, of course this involves $$$$, but helps protect the students and your lesson material. Teachers can use scavenger hunts - set meeting times to actually conduct a class. The list literally goes on. I however am still trying to get through the orientation. I learned to fly, but can't control my flight. Sure signs of a non digital native.
Friday, March 28, 2008
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4 comments:
I am so intrigued by Second Life. I have visited many times. I am still stumbling around like a drunk. Spatial ability is not one of my strengths in real life. Apparently, that clumsiness follows me in the virtual world, as well. :-)
The article is a great resource.
Unfortunately, their system crashed and I have not been able to explore like I want to. I must say that I was originally a little nervous. A few of the screenshots on the homepage were not appropriate and almost made me blush.
My biggest concern with using Second Life (SL) are the 'safe' versus 'unsafe' land. I understand we can't keep our students from going into the more mature lands; however, the litigious nature of today's society makes me want to shy away from even using something like this.
Can the students sign up and ONLY be a part of an educational land? Some different features to keep our students safe and us from fear of a sue-happy society would be great. Is there anything I'm missing since I can't sign on now? Thanks.
I have the same concerns with safe vs not so safe areas. I haven't found an answer yet and it is an issue that would have to be resolved before I could use SL with my students. I have also only recently ventured into SL and truly have to rely on the experience of others. I am looking for some insight and will post what I find.
I have also heard of Second Life, but don't have much experience with it. One of the points the author makes is that she is constantly looking for the balance between encouraging freedom and exploration and allowing the class to get out of control. This is written by a teacher who navigates her classes throughout the virtual world. I guess she still has to deal with some of the same things we do. Do you think that there are applications for science using Second Life? I did see a few simulations listed in the article, but wonder if this virtual world would be appropriate for advanced elementary and middle school students.
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