IDIA has produced a bridging toolset, linking the multi-user virtual environment of Second Life with Blackboard - providing a unified, secure and fluid hybrid learning experience. This project is funded by the Blackboard Greenhouse Grant for Virtual Worlds.
News Items:
IDIA Present Blackboard/SL Greenhouse Grant for Virtual Worlds at Blackboard World 2009
Ball State University's Institute for Digital Intermedia Arts (IDIA) has produced a bridging toolset, linking the multi-user virtual environment of Second Life with Blackboard Learn - providing a unified, secure and fluid hybrid learning experience. This project is funded by the Blackboard Greenhouse Grant for Virtual Worlds and has produced an open-source Building Block.
IDIA at Ball State University (BSU) created a virtual and web-based software toolset to manage, administrate and facilitate any hybrid Second Life / Blackboard Learn instructional experience. These Blackboard Building Blocks and Second Life scripts were specifically developed for a "hands-on" cinematography course taught with a complete set of virtualized filmmaking equipment. This pilot course also served as a prototype for Blackboard courses from any discipline that uses Second Life - especially in the delivery of studio, laboratory or other hands-on modes of learning - extending the modes of typical distance-learning offerings. The pairing of Blackboard technology augments Second Life as is not designed with course management tools to operate effective self-contained distance instruction.
Ball State University Press Release
Online toolset will allow educators to maximize use of Second Life and Blackboard
