University of Ulster in Second Life: update
Here’s a submission to the latest snapshot survey, from the University of Ulster, sent in by Kerri McCusker – thanks:
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Due to the interest in the medical application of Second Life, Kerri McCusker, Research Associate in the Serious Games and Virtual Worlds team, University of Ulster undertook a short project to create a structured learning zone focused on patient education in Second Life focused on autologous stem cell transplantation. This project included a self paced walkthrough in virtual clinics with interactive demos of stems cells, showcase of a hospitals environment and information and links to stem cell transplant resources:
http://slurl.com/secondlife/Ulster%20Magee%202/80/121/23
Additionally a 90 second animation was produced in Second Life which clearly highlights the steps taken during an autologous stem cell transplantation, with particular focus on the actual cells being extracted, stored and subsequently being transfused into the patient again:
Other developments in the Serious Games and Virtual Worlds team have been the recent national workshop on teaching in virtual worlds. The objective of the event was to raise awareness of the benefits and possible pitfalls of using virtual and immersive worlds in an educational context and provided practical advice and demonstrations from leading educators and industrial experts in this area. It highlighted funding opportunities available in this field and offered tips on how to focus research to maximise your chances of succeeding with applications:
