Virtual Worlds is an example of a technology that represents a rhyme of history. Virtual worlds allow participants to become involved in a fantasy world via an avatar and interact with other people,places and situations. This idea evolved from listening to the story teller around the campfire. Here the listeners were transported into a world of make-believe by the pictures drawn by the words of the artful story teller. When words included pictures of fanciful tales in masterfully crafted storybooks, readers were transported mentally to interact with other people, places and situations. When motion pictures and television came along to allow viewers to passively participate with other people, places and situations, the idea of starring in one's own show or adventure gave rise to gaming an gaming with an avatar in a virtual world.
The recurring theme of imaginative interaction represented by ever improving technology is a rhyme of history. Since this kind of interaction is evolving, what will the future hold for it? How will we interact with other people, places and situations in the future? The possibilities are limitless and will repeat the concept of interaction with other people, places and situations. Everything from corporate training, online classes, and entertainment can be found in a virtual world for every age level. Everyone can participate via the Internet in whatever kind of virtual world that suits their fancy and as such participates in a rhyme of history.
Virtual Worlds to explore:
Whyville:Where students learn by doing. http://www.whyville.net/smmk/nice
Second Life: The highly customizable site for adults. http://www.secondlife.com/
The Sims: Online version. http://www.thesimsonline.com/
Virtual Worlds Catagorized: http://www.virtualworldsreview.com/index.shtml
LaVerne,
ReplyDeleteThe virtual world will probably be around for a long time. I know that I use the virtual world to teach online, take classes online, interact with people on a social network and so many other internet related activities. I also feel that the virtual world impacts society in so many ways from interpersonal relationships, politics and entertainment.
Hi LaVerne,
ReplyDeleteThe virtual world is very very interesting to me since I have signed up, created an avatar, and looked around - but I just do not get the excitement surrounding this idea. Perhaps I am being closed minded, but I am not a big fan of being connected to my computer and/or cell phone all the time. Now I text like crazy, but I think I just prefer the 'real' world. However, virutal worlds do bring back the idea of face to face conversations and real life concepts. I think I just need to fiddle more with the site and see all that there is to offer.
Sarah
Hi LaVerne,
ReplyDeleteYou've chosen a very interesting topic. It never dawned on me to reflect back to the time when storytelling was done around the campfire! Virtual gaming has become really popular. There is much discussion at conferences I attend in the state of North Carolina about using virtual worlds to enhance educational experiences for students. We even use our summer technology camps as an opportunity to expose the students to technology such as this. They really enjoy creating Avatar characters :)