Week 9: New Literacy Reflection

Second Life is a software that I can honestly say I never thought I would use prior to this project.  After talking about different types of technology we could use, my group decided to try a technology that would be new for all of us.  I can honestly say I already am very happy we chose to go down this new path because it provides me with the opportunity to learn something new and different ways to incorporate it in my future classrooms.  The population on Second Life consists primarily of older/higher grade level students, however with the expansion and growth of technology I would not be surprised if younger students begin to use this technology as well.
Second Life allows users to connect and communicate.  This is a HUGE component that will allow students to learn from one another.  Connecting to others in a safe environment allows students to explore, teach and learn about their cultures as well as others.  This opportunity has been difficult for most people to have; however now students can connect with other students of different native speakers of particular languages which will provide a more meaningful and real experience for the students which in turn will provide motivation.  This technology provides native English speakers to learn more about other cultures and languages as.  It also doubles as a great opportunity for ELLs to learn and grow in new ways.  Second Life provides a forum in which only written language is used; however, it will be interesting when they can provide sound (text to voice or voice to voice) communication.    Regardless, the written communication provides students to communicate and practice a new language in a safe, non-threatening classroom environment.  Additionally, it is similar to using twitter in the classroom, it opens up the communication for students who may be shy or otherwise would not talk or participate.
After researching and exploring more I have discovered that we are not the first to think about using Second Life for educational purposes.  Although we are not the first it is still a new concept that I don't think will become extinct anytime soon.  I look forward to creating more of the environment and really showing my peers what this technology can do in and out of classrooms for our students!