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Learning from Second Life
Author(s) -
Bell David
Publication year - 2009
Publication title -
british journal of educational technology
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 1.79
H-Index - 95
eISSN - 1467-8535
pISSN - 0007-1013
DOI - 10.1111/j.1467-8535.2009.00943.x
Subject(s) - social life , phenomenon , vernacular , sociology , artificial life , everyday life , epistemology , computer science , social science , artificial intelligence , philosophy , linguistics
There is currently widespread interest in exploring the opportunities to develop learning that can be delivered in three‐dimensional multiuser virtual environments (3‐D MUVEs). In this paper, I argue for the need to conduct research into the emerging cultures of use in 3‐D MUVEs, focussing on the example of Second Life. Drawing on social and cultural studies of 3‐D MUVEs, the paper briefly explores four issues in Second Life which have profound implications for the transplanting of learning: (1) the emerging ‘virtual vernacular’ of Second Life builds, (2) the development of a capitalist economy within and beyond Second Life, (3) the phenomenon of ‘griefing’, and (4) the need to take account of the everydayness of Second Life. Only by attending to the cultures of use in 3‐D MUVEs—learning from Second Life—can we begin to contemplate the potential for learning in Second Life.