CETIS-Eduserv-VW2009

Jumping Virtual Hurdles

Ren Reynolds

Founder: the Virtual Policy Network

CETIS-Eduserv-VW2009

Virtual Policy Network

• Think tank dedicated to public policy implications of virtual worlds

• Working with:– BERR, COI, OECD etc.

CETIS-Eduserv-VW2009

Taxonomy

• Virtual World: super set of things that meet Bartle’s characteristics

• Three (and a bit) types:– Social world: No overarching ostensible game goal e.g.

There.com, SL• Kids worlds: Stardoll, Habbo, Webkins, Club Penguin, vMTV

– Game world: Game goals encoded into the artifact e.g. WoW

– Serious / Private / Corporate world: use of a platform such as Olive for training

CETIS-Eduserv-VW2009

Proposition

When used in the appropriate context virtual world technology can enhance learning outcomes

CETIS-Eduserv-VW2009

I can see the problems!

CETIS-Eduserv-VW2009

Where are the solid cases and best practice?

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Fear

• Parental fear• Student fear • Fear of students• Fear of Law • Establishment

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Fear part 2

• Not real• Just a Game

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Fear part 3

• Image– Sex and shopping– Last year’s fad

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Money

• Actual cash• Budget lines• Procurement processes

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Technology

• Choice– SL– Multiverse– WoW

• IT Support / firewalls• Professional Development

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Old maps uncharted waters

• Measuring• Collaborative techniques• Codes of conduct

– Dress – Race – Language

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Political Agenda

• Mixed messages– Byron Review– Child safe internet

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Misc

• Logistics e.g. Teen Grid • Hobby time - moving to

CETIS-Eduserv-VW2009

Ren Reynolds

www.virtualpolicy.netren@virtualpolicy.net

+44 7778 285 273Twitter etc /RenZephyr