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Authentic LearningAuthentic Learningin Second Lifein Second Life
Bill MoseleyProfessor, Computer Studies, Bakersfield College
Adjunct Faculty, School of Education, Pepperdine University
Bill MoseleyProfessor, Computer Studies, Bakersfield College
Adjunct Faculty, School of Education, Pepperdine University
What is “Authentic”?
Not arbitrary
Motivation is intrinsic
Learning scenario closely mirrors “real life”
Based on inquiry, activity, experimentation, experience, and construction
What is Second Life?
Expansive, Internet-based virtual world
100% user created
Inherently social
Functioning economy with exchange rates
Internet-connected
Scriptable, programmable
Voice Client
Authentic + SL = ?
Using SL in ways that capitalize on it’s strengths
Avoiding the “novelty” argument
Understanding SL’s limitations
Realistic, assessable activity
Why Second Life Excels...
Social tools built-in:
Groups
Chat
Sharing
Low entry barrier for creativity
Interface will be familiar to younger students
Lends a sense of “physicality” that is missing
Allows for otherwise risky or impossible behavior
Where SL Struggles...
Technology requirements
High speed internet connection
Graphics card
Processor / RAM
Learning curve is steep
Too open-ended
Not a turnkey solution for faculty
Barriers to Authenticity IN SL
Death by PowerPoint
Chats with visuals
Doing things because they’re “neat”
Too little time devoted to SL
Too much time devoted to SL
Information-heavy activities
Teaching Strategies
Immersive experiences
Simulations
Role playing
Impossible to do in “Real Life” (RL)
Too dangerous to do in RL
Collaborative building
Activities with a spatial element
Institutional Concerns
Liabilities
Harassment
Inappropriate content
“Griefing”
Finances
Privacy / FERPA
Getting Started:
Take a class
Learn the ropes
Faculty pilot / test group
Get connected
Resources:
www.delicious.com/secondlife/education
www.sloog.org
www.kungfulearning.com
wiki.secondlife.com
www.bmoseley.com
www.youtube.com
