Neit2009+Open+Space+1+G

How to set up your own virtual worlds for learning in your school
Some important links: OpenSimulator.org: Main page for users, developers, and help with OpenSim Easier OpenSim with Diva Distribution Here is a concise how-to Setting up a viewer for Mac Ooh! Nice article just published, OpenSim Deployment gets Easier

What is it?
One computer runs the sim server program (OpenSim), can be Windows or Mac (though I don't know how to set it up on Mac, consult Opensimulator.org for info). Students' computers have Second Life viewer redirected to the IP address of the serving computer, which is a minor tweak. Students log in to the sim and engage in synchronous activities in three dimensions. Advantage over hosted sim (Teen Second Life)
 * bandwidth (you want 15 sims coming through your school's pipe at once?)
 * it's free
 * you control every aspect

Basic requirements

 * wired computers
 * Good enough graphics cards--some laptops have them, some don't, so pre-test
 * For certain environment effects, only desktops will do
 * client computers can be Mac or Windows, though Mac is trickier to configure

Process for setup (this is an overview--consult the above link to Diva Distribution for the concise version)

 * desktop with fixed IP
 * MySQL database
 * FreeSWITCH if you want voice chat
 * Download and install Diva OpenSim
 * Download and configure client viewer (Second Life Viewer)
 * set up the sim--build, build, build, create accounts
 * Wire computers

Ideas for Learning

 * Drama project: students act out plays with props
 * Virtual architecture: build for a zero gravity world
 * Explore mars: You can get terrain from Mars surface data, change the environment settings to look like Mars