Second Life, a Simulation: Barriers, Benefits, and Implications for Teaching

Abstract

Simulations are a part of our social and cultural environment; some children grow up playing simulated online games and continue the practice throughout college. However, few educators are experimenting with simulations. Simulations might be used in schools and are particularly important for educators teaching subjects in the natural, physical, and sciences. This paper begins by defining what a simulation is, presents barrier that prevents educators from exploring simulations, argues for the potential of learning through simulations, introduce Second Life (Linden Lab, 2006) as an online simulation, and concludes by presenting implications for educators.