Modeling Reality with Virtual Worlds

Virtual worlds mimic reality, but allow creativity to extend our experience to endless possibilities. Since these “virtual worlds” have arisen, they have been platforms of socialization with other users, education from informative content, and even explorative traveling. One instance where we have seen these platforms at play was in “Naughty Auties”; a resource center created within Second Life (virtual world) for individuals with autism. Users were able to travel to this tropical hideaway, practice interactions with other users, and find extended information on this condition. We can certainly see the benefits being ease of communication, the atmosphere of a more comfortable, non-pressured environment, and readily available and informative information. 

Another instance we have seen these factors at play were in the article “I’ve Been to That Club, Just Not in Real Life.” After entering a jam-packed, foul smelling music club in Manhattan, the author slipped right out, and into his apartment to play VLES. This virtual world allowed him to experience the club without bumping into a crowd of people or inhaling those foul odors. All he had to do was simply log on, and visit the club! This example exposes us to some of the more negative aspects of virtual worlds; one being the lack of actual human interaction. It may seem convenient to visit a club virtually, but the entire aspect of socialization and real-life experience is lost. Let’s not forget what the hours spent in front of the computer screen is doing to our eyes in the long run. Aside from this, when large numbers of users decide to interact, there is often lag, as mentioned in the article. This can be quite frustrating, and it is definitely not something we deal with in reality. Lastly, virtual worlds do require money for extended features. For example, in Second Life, you can create an avatar and roam for free, but to buy land and much more, you must upgrade to a premium membership, being nearly $10 a month.

Creativity is fostered through these worlds by allowing you to customize and create further and further. In Second Life, you can create your own house, have your own job, and even create a private island. You can customize your avatar with jewelry, tattoos, clothing, and much more. This avatar can experience endless activities, visiting just about anywhere you could in real life; including clothing stores, cafes, and even your wedding destination. As technology continues to advance, I believe virtual worlds could take an amazing turn. I can imagine virtual reality equipment, where you can scan your own body and experience everything first hand, instead of using an avatar. It would be able to take you anywhere on earth, or anywhere in a fictional world. This is something I would definitely look forward to trying.