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Second Life Background
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| Second Life (SL) is an internet-based visual world developed by
Linden Labs and deployed in 2003. There is a free downloadable program
called "Second Life Viewer" that enables users (Residents), to interact
with each other using avatars. Residents can meet other residents,
socialize, participate in individual and group activities, create items,
purchase property and services. In order to enter the world of Second Life, a user must register at the Second Life Website by picking a first name, choosing a last name from the choices provided by Linden Lab, and then giving a valid e-mail address. Users can register, download the software used to enter the world, and access most regions within Second Life at no cost. Although all this is offered at no cost, users must pay for a premium membership in order to purchase land from Linden Lab. Nonpaying users have the option of renting land from a paying member When a user launches the software and first enters the world of Second Life, they arrive as a digital representation of themselves (also referred to as an avatar) in a given place depending on which Website they began the registration process. After going through a short orientation, each person can then begin exploring. Educational Web sites indicate that there are over 100 universities participating in Second Life. Many researchers and educators are experimenting with teaching/learning activities in Second Life, and others are developing interactive learning materials by taking advantage of the building and programming features. Additionally, a number of higher education institutes are exploring how to set up student communities in the virtual environment. Some universities offer classes in Second Life. Coursed can integrate Web 2.0 tools such as wikis and blogs with the Second Life environment to enrich learner's media experience. Other universities create learning centers where students can access modularized learning materials such as presentations, podcasts and blogs, at the kiosks. Ohio University has a campus in Second Life with various buildings including a student center, learning center, and arts and music center. Students may explore the virtual campus and join real student organizations at the student center. Student groups can meet and collaborate on the virtual campus just as they might on the real one. The purpose of this Web site is to encourage public administration educators to explore the possibilities of using Second Life to enrich the MPA experience and report the results at the 2011 Teaching Public Administration Conference. WeEdEdecent statistics show that there are over 100 educational institutes that have established their virtual campus in Second Life and are actively working in the virtual world |