While it’s easy to refer to Second Life as a “game” there is no object, no end point to it. There was an article today on SL Insider about SL and Maslow’s Hierarchy of Needs.
However, once they’ve gotten their feet wet in navigating the world, unpacking and using objects, etc., the new user will commonly make it their next task to generate some Lindens. They see the clothes, skins, and shapes that other avatars use, and they want to have those things too, but how? The weekly stipend pays very little. So they become driven to garner some money for themselves.
Wait… isn’t that a goal? Pursuing this line of reasoning further, we can see a series of goals presenting themselves, somewhat abstractly based on Maslow’s Hierarchy of Needs. First and foremost, the physiological needs: food, shelter, clothing, etc. This definitely applies, as the newbie tries to find that perfect shape or outfit that defines them as a person. Next, the safety needs: am I going to be okay in this new world? Will I be killed, as in World of Warcraft? Can I find others who will help me? Then the need to belong and be loved: Can I find others like me? Can I find someone to care for, and who will care for me in return?
Second Life Insider article
Also another great way SL can be used to educate folks. Check out the video this guy did for learning heart murmurs in a Sim in SL.
If this inspires you to Join SL then put my SL name Tanya Book in as a reference and I’ll be friended to you. After straining my eyes looking at the youtube video I finally found where the sim is located. Waterhead 120, 58, 33