Second Life

It is really interesting, how the researchers and the educators try to find different tools to facilitate the learning process. The virtual second life is an interactive medium that requires a blend of technology, tools, content, student ownership, identity, engagement, course structure, mentoring, feedback, and a good orientation. The computer experts and researchers refer to this experience as lively and active experience where the students are not passive. The interaction is highly learner-centered, and the students enjoy using it. Some research concludes that this tool is easy to use and the participants learn new words and expressions. They also point to the idea that the classes become more interesting with this tool. Other benefits include discovering new ways to study, discuss, create, and express their ideas under the supervision and support of the instructor or the teacher. In virtual worlds, the instructor’s role shifts to be the domain expert. The instructor provides guidance, feedback and facilitates the learning process.  Moreover, the question “Do virtual world classes replace campus- based classes?” seems important to me. I agree with the idea that refers to the campus based classes as rich interaction, expression, and communication atmosphere that provides real-world experiences that are not given in today’s virtual world technology. In addition, this tool may be useful and efficient in the future, but I really want to have all these interactions and communication in the real world classrooms. We can create the same atmosphere in our language or content based classrooms through many different activities and by using valid materials. I created an account in this virtual world, but I cannot share my experience because it is short and not enough to talk about the advantages of this tool. I can only say that I want to discover this world and learn how it can be used in the classrooms. Right now, I think it is time consuming and may deprive the students from the real world experience. Finally, as an ESL/EFL teacher and educator, I should learn more about the strategies and the psychological effects of this tool before I engage my students in it. I like to use the technology as supplementary tool in my classroom, but I do not depend on these tools to create the interaction and real communication. Teachers can have the most interactive classes even without any of the technology tools. Using this technology in my classroom may be  helpful but not essential to fulfill the objectives and goals of my course.