1. Do I need to download special software to access the virtual world?
Yes. A virtual world runs in what is called a viewer. You need to download a viewer to your computer. Instructions of where to get the viewer and how to download it can be found here.
2. Who uses the Virtual History Centre?
This virtual world is for educational use only and is only open to those who sign up for an account which is approved by the administrators. It is a closed environment which can be accessed by teachers and their students and a space where chat and behaviour can be moderated. Like any learning space, users must abide by the code of conduct for the virtual world which can be found here.
The staff who monitor conduct and activity in the virtual and the ones who will be present are either teachers and/or have working with children checks.
It is important to know that the terms of use highlight that activity is monitored and chat logs recorded.
In the virtual world you are responsible to maintain your own learning spaces safe and enjoyable places to be, just like the ‘real world’.
3. Does it cost money to sign up for an account?
No. This resource has been developed through funding the Department of Education and Early Childhood Development in Victoria, Australia. It forms part of over 20 similarly funded projects for the FUSE portal.
4. Is this virtual world only for history?
No! We think that this virtual world is great for learning about the history of our local area but also great for exercises in historical thinking. Whilst the quests which have been developed with a history focus, we encourage users (teachers AND students) to use the space for experimentation for other learning areas.
For more information of the way that virtual worlds can be used in education, please visit http://wiki.jokaydia.com/page/Main_Page.
5. Can my students access other virtual worlds using their login information?
No.
Students login details only give them access to the grid for Virtual History Centre.
