Second Life

Abstract

Background/Purpose of the Technology Second Life is an internet-based, virtual 3-D world (Web 2.0/Web 3-D dynamic computer-based application), produced by Linden Labs, Inc., in which individuals from anywhere in the real world can interact. This immersive learning environment has been used successfully for medical and public health education. Second Life has been used to model doctor-patient relationships, teach clinical diagnosis, train for disasters, and even virtually tour the human anatomy. In Second Life, users are represented in a virtual world by their avatars. An avatar is an online, self-created, animated characterization of the user that can act in any role (doctor, patient, nurse, or teacher) and perform programmed tasks.