January 24, 2008

Is Second Life Learning's Second Chance?

How many of you out there are a little skeptical about the virtual world of Second Life? Well, you are not alone.

But, things are now starting to come into focus. As Joe Miller, vice president of platform and technology at Linden Lab, explains in the February issue of T+D, “Second Life removes the distance from the distance learning equation.”

It is a virtual environment that can replicate situations that are too dangerous or expensive to do in real life. Trainees can learn in a safe environment without the danger that comes with real-life mistakes.

But, Miller adds that Second Life should not replicate what goes on in the classroom. Why create a virtual classroom of chairs, desks, and whiteboards, when you can meet your class on an island and create a new world of learning by jumping into a rocket and taking a ride around the solar system or flying up to the Sistine Chapel to see the magnificent splendor of this wonderful piece of art.

How are you using Second life in your training? What creative delivery methods are you using in the virtual world to engage your employees? Let me know.

Jan 24, 2008 4:37:16 PM

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