Instructional Technology Conference 2008

Title: Real Immersion Language Experiences in a Virtual World: Using Second Life as an Environment for Language Learning

Name: Thom Thibeault

Audience Level: Intermediate

Audience: Language instructors, instructional technology specialists, educators in all disciplines

Length: 2 hours

Abstract:
Attendees will learn how to use the virtual world environment known as Second Life as a platform for learning and instruction. They will create a presence in Second Life and? learn basic navigation and search techniques. They will then participate in learning activities designed primarily for language learning. However, Second Life technology? is relevant to all disciplines so educators in all disciplines are welcome. At the end of the workshop, participants will be able to explore Second Life on their own and create learning activities relevant to their discipline.

Description:
This workshop will be of particular interest to language instructors and instructional technologists who work with language educators. However, educators in all disciplines can make use of this technology so the workshop is relevant to all disciplines. The presenter will show how Second Life, a virtual world, allows realtime language immersion without geographical limitations. For example, a student learning German in Tennessee can engage in a realtime conversation with a German in Berlin, though they appear face-to-face in Second Life. Students can carry out Real Life activities such as going shopping, asking directions, playing games, eating, using objects, and even dancing. Communication can be written or spoken. Written conversations can be captured for error analysis as a classroom activity later on. Participants will begin by creating their own ?avatars? which can be thought of as digital puppets. Avatars have lifelike capablities and since all avatars in Second Life are controlled by human beings, intelligent interaction is possible. This would not be the case with digital characters controlled by the computer. The presenter will engage the participants in various activities designed to promote communication. Information about using Second Life in other disciplines will be discussed. Workshop participants will have some free time to explore Second Life on their own and discover areas that may be of interest to them. A handout with a glossary and? summaries of basic concepts will be distributed. At the end of the workshop, participants will know enough about Second Life to explore it further on their own and design their own learning activities.

Session Type: Hands-on Workshop

Contact information/affiliation:
Thom Thibeault
Director, College of Liberal Arts Media Center
CoLA Media Center
Southern Illinois University - Carbondale
Mailcode 4507
ttbo@siu.edu Southern Illinois University
(618) 453-5412 Carbondale, IL 62901

Equipment: Instructor - computer with projection system, Mac or Windows computer for each participant (Can be a mix of Macs and PCs), Second Life software installed on all computers, on desktop? (free download from secondlife.com), High-speed Internet connection, Computer sound turned on

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