What technical support is there in SL for teaching?
In addition to the extensive communication support inherent in the SL client, there are also many accessory gadgets that can be obtained inworld from sources such as CAVE, formerly ICT Library (slurl), International Schools (slurl), NMC Viewer 2 orientation (slurl), VCE (slurl), Chilbo Education Resource Centre (slurl) or via the web on the Marketplace site (formerly xstreetsl). Inworld search can also be used but care needs to be taken as it is often “gamed” by vendors, clubs, services, etc. Word-of-mouth from other educators, either direct or via one of the email lists or nings, is a good backup strategy. In general some services and gadgets are free, others you pay for. Bear in mind that there are a number of consultants who specialise in developing for SL. Some are listed on the LL site and others can be identified via contacts or the SLED list. There is now a downloadable book evaluating 150 tools of use to educators (first 3 chapters only).
