The Door Just Opened For 6-12 Educators
It seems that every day in Second Life there is exciting news that continues to build a better outlook for its future in education. However, nothing could prepare me for the news that is going to send a shockwave through the middle school and high school academic area:
Firesabre and Global Kids are creating a Teen Second Life Virtual World Campus that will make it far easier for educators to use Second Life. Up to now there’s been a steep learning curve, and high minimum costs.
1.There’s no need to buy a private island from Linden Lab to create an education area for teens. .
2. Educators can rent or buy land parcels for projects.
3. Firesabre handles much of the interaction with Linden Lab.
4.Firesabre associates are available to provide answers and assistance.
What does this mean for Teen Second Life? What does this mean for education? How will this easier access change the classroom both virtually and in real life?
The one thing for sure is that it this is going to cause quite a stir and will open the door for educators to get a true feel for incorporating Teen Second Life into the classroom.
Comments
Hi Ex,
This comes at a great time when educators in the northern hemisphere are getting ready or are already on summer vacation.
This goes on my summer reading/to do list.
Posted by: cheryl oakes | June 3, 2007 2:27 AM
Hi Cheryl:
It is most exciting. Given all the hurdles and expenses that have left most 6-12 educators out in the cold, this has the opportunity to open that door so that more educators enter to explore, evaluate, and even run a pilot if they have determined instructional value.
I'm really anxious to see where this goes. There are a lot of colleges in Second Life but few 6-12 institutions or educators within Teen Second Life. With this, it will be nice to see the 6-12 world exploring and just what comes of it. I have a feeling a lot of answers and even more questions which is excellent!
Now, what about that education only grid that I've been asking about for a year? One thing at a time, right? :-)
Posted by: Ex. Paine | June 3, 2007 11:58 PM
This is great news. Can't wait to see where all this leads! Thanks Ex for keeping us updated on these developments. I can see a teentek.com second life pilot project next year. :)
Posted by: Jeff Utecht | June 5, 2007 9:51 AM
Thanks Ex. This is great news. I will have some teachers ready to try Second Life in two weeks. We are very excited!
Posted by: alice barr | June 6, 2007 2:25 AM
Hi Jeff and Alice:
You both are very welcome! This is the start of really putting SL to the test (no pun intended or maybe it was).
Ex.
Posted by: Ex. Paine | June 6, 2007 11:47 PM