SecondLIfe; Exploring Genome Island

For this assignment, I wasn't able to find Eagle Island, but in a way, I am glad I didn't because I was able to stumble upon Genome Island. As you know, I am a science teacher, so this was obviously a great choice. I will highlight some of my thoughts and feelings below, along with some of my pictures.

First of all, I can't tell you how much fun this was exploring the Island. This Island was all about genetics and how genetics relates to the world. I even watched a presentation about new AIDS testing and how genetics is playing a part in that. I explored some of the labs that show different real world applications for genetic testing. I was so excited to see how SecondLife really could be used in education. There were so many hidden things such as a surf board and a cat I could chat with. I even got a chance to explore Mendel's pea garden! I wasn't able to complete the scavenger hunt, but I know how I could use this in an educational setting. Students could explore different aspects of genetics through the scavenger hunt but in a virtual world. This is AMAZING to me!

Some fun things I did was surf, chat with a cat, explore the laboratories, change the daylight from day to sunset and sunrise, and fly around the island and enjoy not bumping into things. I really do see how this could be used in education but I still have questions. Would I have to build my own island for my specific class? Could more than one user build an environment for an educational class? There is also the concern for child safety in SecondLife. The ability for strangers to chat and talk is very easy. There are also many different types of adult content that would not be appropriate for students or in an educational setting.

So, to sum up my visit to Genome Island, WOW. I really had no idea that I would have this much fun exploring a virtual world that isn't real, but is real. I can't wait to explore the island again and again!

Here are some screenshots I took while at the island!