Second Life which is form of online social networking group immerses users into a 3-D virtual world where the student himself is able to create virtual objects and view simulations and exhibits, visit replications of real or imaginary places, play games, communicate with others, obtain jobs and make a virtual 3D group. Communication is through the instant messaging system to all members in the group. White boards can be used effectively for presentations. Second Life allows for many evaluation opportunities such as discussions, observations, and project-based creations. Teachers can observe students acting out situations, participating in class, and giving presentations. Teachers can ask students to reflect upon their Second Life experiences (simulations, exhibits, interactions, etc.). Teachers could provide students feedback by instant messaging or using an outside tool. This type of learning environment would be supportive of the social constructivist and relativist pedagogies. The objectivist could use Second Life to have students attend class lectures, view exhibits, and experience simulations, but they are not able to evaluate students with tests and quizzes solely using the Second Life environment. However, teachers can post quizzes/tests in Second Life by using the Sloodle software; this is however an improvement on tapped in. I feel that the greatest obstacle here would be the technological know how as the users need to be educated on the various tools available. Every concept of second life is useful provided users know how to search. The learning environment allows for free community chatting interface. It is not a very useful learning platform for children though it presents very many challenges for the mature learners. Everything can be conceived through an avatar. Navigation into the virtual world would seriously disturb the learning environment. It is still an advanced technology and would take sometime for educators and students to get used to the simulations and 3d effects of second life.
