Training LanguageTeachers in Second Life: My experience in Languagelab

Training LanguageTeachers in Second Life: My

experience in Languagelab

Dafne GonzálezUniversidad Simón Bolívar &

Languagelab.com

NW eLearn Northwest eLearning Community

My experience:Since 2002

blended & online (web-based)

SL vs. Web 2.0 teaching and learningAre they different?

Since 2007 Second Life Languagelab.com

Actual teaching

Web- based Both Second Life

Content

Methodology

Synchronous Mediating tools Synchronous

Asynchronous Promoting interaction

Taking care of:

- own avatar (skills teachers should master)- teaching tools- students avatars- Sound- SL platform

Planning Process

Second LifeTeacher-centered

planning“… students will …”

-What the teacher

will be doing

Web-based

Everything available to students: AUTONOMY

Instructions: What to doWhere to postStudent-centered LPs“…you will be able to….”

Structured Lesson Plans

Materials Design

Second Life• New tools: challenge (basic building and scripting skills)

• Experts needed to create materials• Photo editors skills for textures

Both • Materials and tools needed• Free and paid services• Teacher-made materials

Web-based: Web 2.0 tools easily available online

Social aspect of teaching

Interaction with

Web-based: Second Life: People Avatars Real names Names Photos Look Webcams Gender Videos

Real Voice

Implications for Teacher Training?

Personal Skills

1. Desktop Management

2. SL profile 3. Navigation 4. Library 5. Changing

appearance 6. Gestures7. Pie Menu8. Inventory

management

Communication Skills

1. Sound / Voice

2. Chat & IMs3. Notecards

Building & Scripting Skills

1. Moving & creating objects

2. Editing scripts

Using Educational Tools

1. Projectors &Readers2. Givers3. Poll & Quizcreators4. Time Takers5. Games

Mini-lessons

Spanish Sim: “Ciudad Bonita”

English Sim: “The City”

Thanks for your attention!

Dafne Gonzá[email protected]

Daf [email protected]