Lisa Toh

The last lesson was filled with tummy-aching laughter as we played Second Life. The game provided opportunities to experience situations and abilities that would otherwise be impossible or too expensive to carry out in real-life. For example, avatars could fly or teleport from place to place; and physical looks could be customized to suit oneself. I feel that Second Life would benefit low self-esteem individuals as they're able to build their self-confidence in the virtual world and provide opportunities that would seem 'intimidating' for them in reality.

Places could be created in Second Life and this would be a viable resource for virtual fieldtrips as it is inexpensive and not subjected to safety or unpredictable weather conditions. This would help tremendously in teaching as students (in the form of their avatars) could interact with the environment in Second Life and engage in active learning. It'll also be a platform for students to learn 'soft' skills such as interpersonal relationships.



This Youtube video addresses the 'science' aspect of Second Life. I find it particularly useful as 3D images and animations are incorporated, which would aid students in learning. The ability to zoom into details (eg: going into a cell and exploring intracellular components) will raise students' excitement and motivation to learn. Lab and clinical sessions are also useful for hands-on experiences, which would otherwise be impossible in real life due to security and professional reasons (eg: access to surgery room only available to medical personnels). Besides engaging in activities, theory details can be embedded in boards that are located around the island. The presence of an auditorium simulates classroom conditions online, but with the added benefit that collaboration between students of different countries around the world is possible. This will facilitate exchange of ideas and learning strategies that are being taught differently in the various countries; students will be able to gain insights as they interact.

In my free time, I will embark to explore Second Life as I see the potential of it in classroom teaching and learning. It is and innovative way to incorporate the syllabus and I'm sure the tech-savvy students will appreciate it! In addition, they may even be encouraged and motivated to explore Second Life in their homes, and in the process, pick up new information and unconsciously internalize them!