What are different ways these virtual worlds can be used? What are the pros and cons? Be specific. How do virtual worlds foster creativity? What do you think the future of virtual worlds will look like?
Virtual worlds are online "worlds" where users create a character/identity (called an "avatar", in some cases) and roam throughout- meeting new people, exchanging ideas (and virtual or even real items), creating stories, and contributing/altering to the world's landscape.
There are many different ways a virtual world can be used. In most cases, it's a virtual reality to get away from the real world, and a way for many people to create an identity not like theirs. They can create a life that they always wanted, but could not have in this world. So, they go to the virtual world. It's a great way of meeting new people as well. They then form groups and go out to alter the virtual world in many ways, changing and forming it to their desires. In fact, one virtual world was recreated to an exact replica of the Lower East Side, in New York, based on the NY Times article, "I've Been in That Club, Just Not In Real Life." It goes to show just how deep rooted creators become in investing time and energy into these hobbies. It's a powerful thing, but it's also truly terrifying how sucked into many people get.
Thousands of dollars are spent every day for virtual items through virtual worlds. From Second Life, to video game items on Xbox Live, they usually mean nothing. But, they either add to the persona, give the avatar a more personable quality, or continue to add to the world. But, as stated, it comes at a cost. The question is, why would people do this? It could be to gain notoriety or acceptance in these virtual worlds, to stand out, or just flat out addiction, which is a serious problem. People need to find that right balance between our world, and theirs.
http://www.nytimes.com/2008/01/06/arts/television/06itzk.html
http://www.nytimes.com/2009/10/22/fashion/22Avatar.html?_r=0
There are many different ways a virtual world can be used. In most cases, it's a virtual reality to get away from the real world, and a way for many people to create an identity not like theirs. They can create a life that they always wanted, but could not have in this world. So, they go to the virtual world. It's a great way of meeting new people as well. They then form groups and go out to alter the virtual world in many ways, changing and forming it to their desires. In fact, one virtual world was recreated to an exact replica of the Lower East Side, in New York, based on the NY Times article, "I've Been in That Club, Just Not In Real Life." It goes to show just how deep rooted creators become in investing time and energy into these hobbies. It's a powerful thing, but it's also truly terrifying how sucked into many people get.
Thousands of dollars are spent every day for virtual items through virtual worlds. From Second Life, to video game items on Xbox Live, they usually mean nothing. But, they either add to the persona, give the avatar a more personable quality, or continue to add to the world. But, as stated, it comes at a cost. The question is, why would people do this? It could be to gain notoriety or acceptance in these virtual worlds, to stand out, or just flat out addiction, which is a serious problem. People need to find that right balance between our world, and theirs.
http://www.nytimes.com/2008/01/06/arts/television/06itzk.html
http://www.nytimes.com/2009/10/22/fashion/22Avatar.html?_r=0
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