This work involves an experimental
section of a Computer Science course focusing on animation,
offered entirely in the virtual world of Second Life.
The goal of the experiment was to discover whether worlds like
Second Life could be used effectively to teach computer graphics
in a distance-learning environment. The class, which focuses on computer animation from a programmer’s perspective, provides students the opportunity to explore the fundamental algorithms of animation via lecture and algorithm implementation.
Class interactions including lectures, student assessment, and instructor office hours were all conducted in-world. Assignments were completed using the Linden Scripting Language and submitted to the instructor via in-world student demonstrations.
The class offers an alternative to traditional course delivery in physical classroom and shows much possibility for teaching animation as an online offering.