A new IU Teaching and Learning Island in the Second Life virtual world redefines the physical classroom. Technology eliminates the traditional classroom constraints and allows participants to “teleport” to virtualized archaeological digs or “fly” between discussion groups. This means faculty and students can conduct discussions in specific environmental contexts. For example, a class could discuss “The Raven” at night, by a campfire, in an ocean-side gazebo. Participants can collaborate with text, voice chat, and a range of multimedia including streaming video.

Tags: teaching-learning