Second Life and Philosophy

In recent discussions with some Philosophy and other university teachers – someone mentioned the use of the Second Life – the virtual world – as a possible teaching tool / environment. I know some Universities use Second Life to hold tutorials – and have virtual campuses there.

I was not convinced that these meetings had many advantages over more spartan on-line discussion forums – and worried students (and staff) might get distracted by working so hard on their Avatars that they forgot why they were there.. But, as often, maybe I am wrong.

I did find a blog about Philosophy in Second Life at http://secondlifephilosophy.com/ and this links to a philosophy meeting place, and other resources.

I also began to ponder whether we could use Second Life for modelling and playing out ethical scenarios…

You may also be interested in the debate at http://www.secondlifeherald.com/slh/2007/07/philosophy-of-s.html

Is this a wise idea to move in- or a dubious and time-consuming distraction?
Dave