Second Life

Second Life is a virtual reality program used by people all over the globe. It was created for users over the age of 18. There is no cost for a regular membership. Users create avatars and walk around the virtual world, communicating with others. A form of Instant Messaging is used for communication between users. The virtual world has it's own currency, the Linden dollar, which can be used to purchase virtual goods. There are virtual businesses, art galleries, and theaters. Some bands have toured virtually in Second Life and theater groups such as the Second Life Shakespeare Company have performed plays. Some religious organizations have started to appear in the virtual world. Second Life works with a variety of operating systems. Many higher education institutions use it for research and instruction as well as language learning. Virtual businesses are regulated and gambling is prohibited. Some criticisms of Second Life have been voiced. Some people have complained of limited access due to not having a mouse. People with visual impairment also struggle with using Second Life. The owners of the virtual world are trying to solve these problems. Second Life has also been criticized for adult content.