You’ve heard about 2nd Life, right? It’s the online simulation that allows you to create an avatar (a digital alter ego, if you will) and roam around a vast, seemingly limitless world. I’d never tried it before, but then I came across an article in Science News about how some scientists are using the site to conduct experiments, teach courses and carry out actual, long-term research projects for which they receive serious funding.
Well, that was enough to get me to check it out for myself. After about 20 minutes spent signing up (it’s free), downloading some free software and learning how to walk (and fly!) around the simulated world, I was ready to go.
And … it’s pretty incredible. Using the 2nd Life search function I looked for “science” and got hundreds of hits. You can teleport from one “island” to another within seconds, and once there, explore these 3D worlds. It’s really amazing.
So, some highlights …
First, using the Science News article as a guide, I went to an island called “Second Nature 3.” It’s a sort of barren-looking place–literally and island surrounded by ocean–teeming with odd plants and creatures. It was created by a Drexel University neuroscientist as a place where plants and animals evolve and live out life cycles. It’s wild.
I also visited the Abyss Museum of Ocean Science, the Science Friday region, the Star Trek Museum of Science, the Drexel University region and many other science-related places. I highly recommend it.
I could have easily spent several hours exploring these virtual science worlds. Instead, I tore myself away to write about this phenomenon and wonder out loud. How much actual science can get done in 2nd Life? To my eye, the graphics looked very cool but still a little crude. I can see how 2nd Life science could be a great introductory teaching tool. It’s a very cool and fun way to communicate science to the masses. But outside of science outreach, can it really allow scientists to do in-depth research?
I have no idea. Maybe some of you do. I highly suggest that you check out 2nd Life science stuff for yourself.
Jeremy, I’ve always been curious about 2nd Life. Thanks for the description!
Watch out! Before you know it, you’ll be buying Second Life real estate, marrying a Second Life wife, and writing for Second Life newspapers.
Also, you can fly in Second Life, so I don’t think it would be conducive to very accurate physics experiments. For starters.
A really excellent blog! I’ll be back soon, I hope you update!
I can see these sites being used for experiments in sociology and psychology, but little else. Even then, one has to keep in mind that one of the key factors affecting human behavior — the element of risk — is largely missing from any virtual world. You can do and say things online that you wouldn’t dream of doing IRL (in real life).
Max
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