Second Life

Second Life (SL) is a virtual world developed by Linden Lab that launched on June 23, 2003 and is accessible via the Internet. A free client program called the Second Life Viewer^[1] enables its users, called Residents, to interact with each other through avatars. Residents can explore, meet other residents, socialize, participate in individual and group activities, and create and trade virtual property and services with one another, or travel throughout the world, which residents refer to as the grid. Second Life is for people aged 18 and over, while Teen Second Life is for people aged 13 to 17.

Built into the software is a three dimensional modeling tool based around simple geometric shapes that allows a resident to build virtual objects. This can be used in combination with the Linden Scripting Language which can be used to add functionality to objects. More complex three dimensional Sculpted prims (colloquially known as sculpties), textures for clothing or other objects, and animations and gestures can be created using external software. The Second Life Terms of Service ensure that users retain copyright for any content they create, and the server and client provide simple digital rights management functions.

The Second Life project was started at Cal State Long Beach to facilitate the following main objectives:

• Academic activities - such as virtual classroom sessions and meetings
• Trade activities - such as virtual and online shopping through the 49er shops
• Student activities and recreation

Second Life Information on the Web

• What is Second Life?
• FAQ
• Membership Plans
• Download Second Life
• System Requirements
• Blog
• Second Life Wiki

The Beach World

CSULB’s virtual campus (island) on Second Life includes virtual classrooms and auditoriums for online class meetings and presentations. The following can also be found on the CSULB island:

• A virtual version of the Walter Pyramid for virtual beach volleyball, basketball and other sports
• A virtual version of the Beach Store on 2nd street that sells virtual CSULB merchandise and links to the actual store for a true shopping experience
• The Espresso Loft to hang out and enjoy a  virtual latte and more!
• Lots of opportunities for students and faculty to try out different types of virtual activities

How can I use Second Life and explore The Beach World?

Register and create an avatar at www.secondlife.com

Download the SL viewer from the SL website. Read the detailed ‘Quickstart Guide’ provided.

Search for ‘The Beach World’ in the search bar once logged on the SL and teleport to the island. Start exploring our island.

For more information, visit this link:
http://www.csulb.edu/colleges/cba/secondlife/