DIVERSASIA - Best practices

"Second Life" is a virtual world. It is a 3D online space which members create and develop. When a person joins Second Life, they become a character in this virtual environment. They
have an online representation of themselves, an "avatar". Simply by joining and taking part in
Second life, informal learning can take place. For instance, learning how to use the system
and create an avatar develops ICT skills.

Context:
The idea is that people lead virtual lives in this world. It has an economy built to reward entrepreneurship and the currency is the Linden dollar, which is linked to the US dollar. Residents can create their own virtual goods and services. Because they retain the intellectual property rights of their products, they can sell these to others in Second Life. There is also a real estate market where residents can buy land, build their own communities and set up businesses. These activities all offer enormous potential for informal learning.

Focus of inclusive practice:
Anyone over the age of 18 can take part in Second Life. There is a separate virtual world, Teen Life, which is exclusively for young people aged 13-17. It appeals to a wide cross section of people and offers a place for people with special needs, Virtual Ability.
This is a place where people with a wide range of disabilities and chronic illnesses can safely learn about virtual worlds.

Method of inclusive practice:
Second Life offers a flexible environment to explore learning opportunities. It can be a tool for distance learning, collaborative work, new media studies and business studies. Being part of a simulation can help learners try new ideas and learn from their mistakes. This appeals to many educators, as this can help prepare learners for similar real-world experiences.

Level of success:
Some universities and other educational institutions have begun using Second Life. For instance, the Open University has bought an island and is working with students from the National Association of Gifted and Talented Youth to explore the learning possibilities.The island will be developed and managed by learners.