Virtual University Creates Possibilities

   A new online campus created for Washington State University in the Second Life program is bringing new possibilities to the many distance degree programs available to students.

   Students and staff created the online campus for WSU adding multiple features that could be recognized by anyone familiar with the campus. The virtual campus will offer subscribers the ability to go to attend lectures, conferences, and even check out art displays.

   Being used by many universities across America, Second Life is quickly becoming more than just a socializing program as it has been used for mock open-heart surgery as well as a college graduation ceremony.

   Brett Atwood, an assistant professor at the Edward R. Murrow College of Communication, who has worked as a web content strategist for Linden Lab, maker of Second Life, believes the new online campus will open up many new possibilities.

   “WSU in Second Life can be used to introduce people to the campus without them even having to come to Pullman,” he said. “It’s not for everyone, but it is good for distance learning programs and it allows for a sense of community.”

   Atwood also plans to use the online campus for Journalism and Public Relations classes next semester.

   Two issues that have some people concerned about the program and its use are the hardware requirements as well as the adult content that is found throughout.

   Second Life also provides people with the opportunity to shop online at locations such as Amazon.com where you can look around and interact with other customers.

   The ability to choose what your avatar looks and dresses like is another option that draws many to this program and opens up a new world of artistic creativity. Security settings within the program also provide creators the choice to block or allow others into their own virtual area.

   Dylan Schumacher, a WSU student, thinks that the new online campus could also be used for other purposes.

   “When you have those really tough mornings or when you are sick it’s hard to make it to class,” he said. “It would be great if you could just log in online and attend class virtually rather than physically.”