This is a post from Skoolaborate. Certainly links to 21st Century learning. You can see the learning take place here - both for adults and students. I can only show you a glimpse but the reality was sooooo much more. Our young and dynamic virtual architect Mike Dennenny teamed up with innovative real world architect Ed Lippman to begin construction of a virtual version of MLC Schools' new Junior School.
We knew Mike had the skill and Ed the talent but what would happen when we put them together? Would they clash? Would the teenager be lost in the commercial world? Could Ed have the same faith we had in Mike?
Well it was fantastic. The amount of learning between these two was incredible. Mike had to construct a real building converting real plans to a virtual floor plan, Ed had the opportunity to see his building appear before him and could change walls or doors at the blink of an eye- "I don't usually see this detail" he said.
Throughout the entire conversation both Mike and Ed shared plenty about architectural knowledge and design principles. There was problem solving, collaboration, co operative planning, compromise and more. It was like two kids in a lolly shop. It was also like two colleagues hard at work - no age divsion in sight.
These two will learn plenty more from each other but the great, great thing is that our Mike has made one more bold step towards his destiny. Second Life is proving quite an amazing learning tool.
The other great thing is to watch the students gather from around the island to watch the progress, then return to another part of Skoolaborate to experiment and imitate.
A big thanks to MLC Principal Ms Barbara Stone for having the vision and ability to see an opportunity and to allow us to act and take advantage. Enjoy the small sample below, I will post more as the building gets closer to completion.
Hi Wes,
We met at ITSC 06.... Just came across your site - this is brilliant. How did you stumble across such a wiz to help you create this world? Oh to have the leadership with the vision to step out and try something different. Are you running and classes or extension classes in Second Life? If you are interested in trying let me know... I have some digital media students who would love to connect in a virtual world and share their work.
Posted by: Brett Moller | February 06, 2008 at 09:06 PM