Using+Virtual+Worlds

[|Virtual worlds] --are areas online where students can interact with each other using avatars.

Examples: Second Life @ [] Sloodle @ [] SLOODLE merges Moodle & Second Life

Whyville @ [|http://www.whyville.net]. This virtual world is specifically designed for educational purposes, establishing educational goals rather than engaging only in open-ended use like Second Life. Students can visit beaches, build businesses, sell cars, etc.

Applications in Education:
 * Virtual Worlds, such as Whyville, have much potential in Education by providing fun, highly motivating, places for collaboration.
 * In these virtual worlds new snippets are constantly being added that provide additional functionality to the system.
 * This environment provides ample opportunity for social skills development and writing/reading skill development through a fun, non-intimidating manner.