I have done a lot of research on this Second Life online learning environment and it has tremendous benefits, but I am beginning to realize some of the serious limitations and potential dangers of online learning environments. These are not to suggest that Second Life or other online environments should not be used, but should be considered. One of the first disadvantages/limitations that I recognized with this model is the broadband issues that may arise. If students are working from home with dial up connections or really anything less than Road Runner, this may cause a loading/buffering issue. The biggest issue that I have seen or have an issue with is the lack of structure and lack of security protecting the children. It is an open environment that anyone can drop in on and distract the other users at pretty much any time, which can be beneficial to the learning environment at times to break up the structure of a traditional class, but mainly detrimental to the learning experience.
I have used the instructional design system ADDIE with Dr. Wang in Multimedia and I feel that this is an amazing outline that should be used, especially when using an open ended online environment like Second Life. Teachers need to have a firm grasp on their learning outcomes, how they are going to get there, and how effective it is. This form of planning is essential to ensuring that the class is getting what was expected out of the online environment. There needs to be a goal with some structure here in order to make sure learning actually takes place because of how easy it can be to wonder, explore, and get off task.
Allen,
ReplyDeleteI also have the same concerns regarding the use of Second Life in the educational setting. The fact that anyone can be involved in the program at any time makes me nervous for the safety of the students. Also the fact that some students will not have computers with roadrunner and therefore cause a huge delay/gap in the online learning adventure!
You bring up a great point with regards to people not having the proper internet connection for SL to run smoothly. This would cause a serious problems it trying to work with several students in a class at the same time.
ReplyDeleteI agree that a down fall to Second Life is the lack of structure and security. It is a scary thought that our students could potentially be in harm. If rooms are privately set you still present the risk of your own student bullying other students. Structure guideline would need to be set and consequences would need to be put in place if students did not abide by the guidelines.
ReplyDeleteGood discussion going here... :)
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