We did encounter some problems, technology-wise, with some of the computers in the room unable to support the SL client, because of problems with the graphics card, and other computers simply being unbearably slow. The technology problems notwithstanding, it takes a while to get the hang of SL and work out the point of it, so a number of us arrived and got to wondering what to do next. This problem could be addressed with a more structured task (for example a scavenger hunt), but the lack of structure also added to the activity, in that we were able to play with a variety of environments and report back on some diverse experiences afterwards. It would also seem that if language educators are going to make use of SL in their delivery, then what is really required is some kind of ongoing project, which includes an initial period of orientation and play in the various environments that are available.
After diving into SL in this way, it was helpful to review the ways in which it could be used, and this video (via the ICT4LT site) is particularly useful for that:
What's your experience of Second Life?
11 comments:
I think SL for me is extremely difficult game, for one thing it is not easy to control and for another thing, it is not guaranteed that it is helpful for the learners to practice English merely by talking to someone on line.
If using SL in language learning, I think it should be for high level students, say secondary school students. The most important thing is the students should get access to computer at home or somewhere out of school. Actually, I think playing game is a helpful method for language learning. I used to have a classmate who is good at English and she said the reason lies on her experiences of playing computer games since she was a kid and all the introduction and directions of the games she played were in English.
As for SL, I think it is also a good way to learn history, which is usually very painful for most of the students because of so many things to memorize. However, in the Renaissance Island, all the things are turned to 3D and virtual so that the learning becomes so enjoyable.
In my second visit to this place, I saw the person called Jim. He is in real life a faculty member and administrator at A&M. He and his friend spent more than two months creating the two islands of A&M campuses. He talked with me via ‘public voice’, and showed me how to add a landmark for a place. So, I learned that the landmark for Bloom’s taxonomy model is ‘Texas A&M University Second Life, 12th Man (157, 227, 26)’. And you are most welcome to visit this amazing model. (You're welcome to view my post of A&M tour: http://englishlearningpub.blogspot.com/2010/02/blooms-taxonomy-model-at-texas.html
Second life is amzaing at first sight. It would be useful for second language learners in some way. However, I don't think it could be used in class. Students can practice English in SL after class and this may arouse their interests in learning English as they need English to play the game well. I recall my cousin, he was once crazy for computer games, as the language there was Japanese, He had no choice but to learn some more Japanese to play well. I do think it is the same with SL. The only problem teachers should bear in mind is that SL is somewhat an on-line game, students may get obsessed with it. To what degree SL could it be utilized into teaching syllabus.
Anyway, SL could do well if appropriately combined into teaching and learning.
I find SL beneficial for me becasue it helps me to practice "oral" English. One deficiency of English learning and teaching in mainland China is that students mostly learn English in academic register. They use "big" word and don't know how to chat naturally in English just as me. SL is an interesting game and prompt students to chat or talk without pressure.
t was my first time to have experience on SL. First I felt very exciting when I logged in and went to Orientation Land. But later on I lost , I did not know what I should do. Then I started to talk with some friends. I felt that the communication tools are excellent. I could communicate with anyone who I wanted to. SL is amazing and welcomed by a large of population because of having different experience from ancient time to modern. We will have distinct life if we start SL. That is why SL is so popular. We can create things we like, know anonymous avatars, start business. All of these are so attractive for players. However, my concerning is that how we can apply SL into language teaching. Actually, SL is a good place to use English to communicate by texts or voice. For language learners, it stimulates their interest in learning English. But I am also worried that whether our students are addicted into play games. Therefore, it takes risk to have a try. Teachers should have to control them when it applies into real teaching.
I tried several times but still failed in enjoying SL esp. the world map. See, this is the problem. We need technology support, including the access to get online, the knowledge how to play in SL, and what to start with in SL. Just in last class, dear Christoph spent nearly one hour hanging around and making sure that everyone can sign in SL. Still, there were several ladies could not work well with the computer including me.
This is my first time to join in a totally virtual world. Even though I didn't get much fun from that, I am thinking about what we can do with that in our English teaching and learning.
I have read my peers comments and would like to point out the following about SL and other things as well. When I started to learn to ride a bike many years ago I was not very good at it. However I am still able to ride a bike 45 odd years later. The saying is Rome was not built in a day ! Obviously Robbie managed to connect with some people and I would love to take a closer look at the Globe Theatre. http://www.shakespeares-globe.org/theatre/annualtheatreseason/ I am inclined to think that many students would be far more interested in having a look around such a place than read about it in a text book. I wonder what else is in SL ? It strikes me that it has enormous potential, I wonder if I could look at the terracotta warriors at Xi'an ? Or a closer look at Stonehenge, or inside the pyramids ? I suspect the speed of the computers plays a large part in whether or not SL was enjoyable. I suspect the computers left a lot to be desired. I would like to go back for another look at SL, however right now, I have other agendas that must be attended to. Don't give up on this one, it has enormous potential !
I am really amazed by SL, even love at first sight! SL is so powerful and it has millions of information waiting for us to explore. I like SL because it is a good tool for students to study at home, since students don’t have much time being with the teachers. However, it is not easy to use at the very beginning because it seems a little bit complicated. I think it is better to combine SL with more structured projects or tasks so that students will have a clear mind of what they are doing instead of wandering in SL. However useful SL is, what matters is HOW to apply it. Now, it is time for us to learn the new trick and make the most of it!
A few days ago I went for a hike on the Great Wall of China. I could hear the water splashing against some rocks. It was a great experience. I did spend a lot of time bumping into walls. This suggests to me that I should spend a bit more time in learning to control my avatar. The British Council has an island on Teen Second Life. Teen Second Life is a bit more problematic for people over 17 years old.
Great insights and info to read and learn from ....We are very grateful for all what you've did and thank you all the way..
It was a struggle to deal with SL as a start for me ...but I'd love to explore it more in the near future...when ever I can
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