How CPS Teachers & Librarians Can Get Involved
To become involved with Second Life (SL), go to www.secondlife.com and set up an account. Currently, there are free accounts available. Select an avatar name and appearance. Then, download the SL client software. Minimum systems requirements are listed at the website. You must use a high-speed Internet connection with good graphics capabilities. Please note that the main grid is for persons 18+ years. It is not for use with students and not within the CPS network. We recommend its use for librarians and teachers as a supplemental technology application to assist in professional development, networking, and access to virtual and real-life educational resources.
When you log onto Second Life for the first time, you will be “born” at one of the orientation islands. You will want to go through the tutorial to learn the basics of SL. Then, search “places” for Chicago Public Schools and teleport to that location. Visit the CPS Dept of Libraries Professional Library on the west side of the sim. (coordinates 79, 157, 23) Explore the various buildings on the island - or sim - and the surrounding islands. Search for and join the group “Friends of Chicago Public Schools”. Then IM the avatar Elaine Tulip to initiate friendship.
If you have any questions about becoming involved in Second Life, please contact Lisa Perez, CPS Department of Libraries Area Library Coordinator at 773-553-6212.
2008 Back-to-School presention: second-life-back-to-school-08.ppt
