- PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT
- Virtual Worlds
A virtual world is a computer-based simulated environment intended for its users to inhabit and interact via avatars. ...
An avatar is a computer user's representation of himself/herself or alter ego, whether in the form of a three-dimensional model used in computer games, a two-dimensional icon (picture) used on Internet forums and other communities, or a text construct found on early systems. It is an “object” representing the embodiment of the user. The term "avatar" can also refer to the personality connected with the screen name, or handle, of an Internet user.
RezEd
A good place to start is RezEd, the hub for learning and virtual worlds. The site provides practitioners using virtual worlds with access to the highest quality resources and research in the field to establish a strong network of those using virtual worlds for learning.
Second Life (SL) and Teen Second Life (TSL)
One of the most extensive adult virtual worlds is Second Life. Second Life® is a 3-D virtual world created by its Residents. Since opening to the public in 2003, it has grown explosively and today is inhabited by millions of Residents from around the globe.
Second Life has also created a restricted virtual world for teenagers, Teen Second Life. Teen Second Life is an international gathering place for teens 13-17 to make friends and to play, learn and create. Teen Second Life place where teens will interact with other teens their own age. Occasionally teachers with special educational projects may be allowed access. However, only vetted adults are allowed on TSL (see the Parent Information Page). When that happens residents will know who they are and what type of project they’re working on.
Other Virtual Worlds
There are a multitude of virtual worlds for every age group. Virtual Worlds Review will list and rate these worlds.
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