Tuesday, July 5, 2016

KSP684 - Classroom 4 - Message from Superintendent Miller

This weeks message from our Superintendent was about simulations, particularly Second Life.

Here are some notes I took while watching the video:

Many universities “buy” an island in Second Life so they can set up simulations within the software.  Can be used for training such as nursing.

Second Life’s population has dropped off because there is concern about the open network setup with security for students.  There have also been buggy issues with the software.

Also, strangers can just talk to you - there has been bullying, harassment, inappropriate language, and stalking.  Need to protect our students from these situations.  It is open to all ages so they may encounter strangers in the virtual world.

Can interact with anyone you want.  There are people from all over the world.

Intellagirl - Sara Smith-Robbins - wrote dissertation on Second Life

James Abram - created a spanish village to teach a spanish course.  Students gain authentic experience in the virtual world.  Examples include an authentic flamenco concert within Second Life.

Some sample islands:
  • Paris in the 19th century - you can explore and role play.
  • EFL class in China
  • Potential multicultural teaching
  • STEM program built a Virtual Engineering Sciences Learning Lab - encouraging female students to explore STEM careers - Vessel Lab

All simulations aren’t digital.

There are lots of electronic sims:
  • Control equipment
  • Nursing simulations
  • Driving simulations
  • PhET - University of Colorado, Boulder - John Travoltage
  • Teaching simulation

How can I use simulations in my classroom?

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