1. An Introduction to Virtual Worlds
EDIT 424
An Introduction to Virtual Worlds

2. Definition
“A synchronous, persistent network of people, represented as avatars, facilitated by networked computers.” (Bell 2008)
An avatar is any digital representation (graphical or textual), beyond a simple label or name, that has agency (an ability to perform actions) and is controlled by a human agent in real time
Shared activities necessitate synchronous communication
People are central to virtual worlds
A virtual world cannot be paused

3. Synchronous and Asynchronous Interactions
INSTANT MESSAGING – CONFERENCE CALLS
ADD FRIENDS
Text chat, instant messaging, , voice chat, gestures

4. Second Life Second Life – the onnline 3D virtual world
Users 13 to 15. If you are at least 13 years of age but less than 16 years of age, you may only use the Service if you are affiliated with a Sponsoring Organization, and your Account in Second Life is referred to as an “Affiliated Account.”
Users 16 and 17. If you are at least 16 years of age but less than 18 years of age (or the legal age of majority in your jurisdiction, if it is greater), then you may only access areas of the Service rated General in accordance with our Maturity Ratings.

5. Second Life Age restrictions:
13 – 15 Years - only if affiliated with a Sponsoring Organization
Years - may only access areas of the service is rated ‘General’ in accordance with maturity ratings
Community Standards address:
Intolerance
Harassment
Assault
Disclosure
Adults regions, groups and listings
Disturbing the peace
Intolerance - marginalize, belittle, or defame individuals or groups inhibit the satisfying exchange of ideas and diminish the Second Life community as a whole. The use of derogatory or demeaning language or images in reference to another Resident's race, ethnicity, gender, religion, or sexual orientation is never allowed in Second Life.
Harassment - offensively coarse, intimidating or threatening, constitutes unwelcome sexual advances or requests for sexual favors,
Disclosure - Sharing personal information about your fellow Residents without their consent -- including gender, religion, age, marital status, race, sexual preference, alternate account names, and real-world location beyond what is provided by them in their Resident profile –
Assuault - shooting, pushing, or shoving another Resident in a Safe Area
Disturbing the peace - disrupting scheduled events, repeated transmission of undesired advertising content, the use of repetitive sounds, following or self-spawning items, or other objects that intentionally slow server performance or inhibit another Resident's ability to enjoy Second Life

6. Information/Awareness American Cancer Society Relay for Life

7. Collaborative Spaces

8. Social Interaction

9. Lecture in Second Life

11. Second Life Second Life with Jass Easterman (Sue Gregory) Lecturer
Faculty of The Professions
School of Education, UNE
Second Life with Jass Easterman - deBono in Second Life

12. Reference
Bell, M.W. (2008). Virtual Worlds Research: Past, Present & Future. Journal of Virtual Worlds Research, Vol(1).
Retrieved from