The Virtual World of “Second Life“
Second Life is a highly imaginative, creative environment. Visiting Second Life is like stepping into a Dali or Magritte painting in 3D. The "fully textured high-resolution" avatars are customizable to the "nth" degree, with dozens of sliders to change every micro-pixel of your avatar's shape, size, and color. While some "Lifers" (the preferred nickname of Second Life citizens) do their best to create miniature versions of their offline bodies, most use the opportunity to make themselves look as strange as possible. You never know what (or who) you'll see in Second Life, which is part of the fun.

While many gamers visit Second Life, it is not a "gaming" world per se. The main in-world activity is the building of interactive objects using a scripting language that is theoretically designed to be simple enough for those with no previous programming experience. This fits in with Second Life's stated goal of encouraging widespread group participation and creativity. Objects can be either donated to the world or can be sold for "Linden Dollars."

Second Life's often bizarre "waking dream" atmosphere may appeal more to creative artist and techie folks than to the casual social chatter. The world is so rich in features there is a bit of a learning curve to overcome to get started, which is somewhat alleviated by well-written help files available at the site and a first-visit tutorial. The very name "Second Life" conveys the idea that this is more of a rich, complex online experience than a place to drop by every once in a while for a quick game of "Tringo" with some buddies. If you get freaked out by seeing odd things that you can't explain, this world is not for you. But postmodern surrealists will love Second Life's ever-changing landscape with its stunning scenery and interesting creations. Plus, you can fly!

IBM is now looking at conducting meetings and training programs using avatars* or custom animated 3D characters through online resources. Second Life Check this out! It’s a thrill for sure.

[*Definition of Avatar = an electronic 2D or 3D image that represents and is manipulated by a computer user.]

Source: Virtual World Reviews, IBM, Webster Dictionary

More About Virtual Worlds…
by Dan Costa

One of the most appealing aspects of the Internet is the ability to meet and interact with people across the globe in real time. Traditionally, this interaction has been limited either to friendly (but somewhat boring) text chat or to lopping off virtual heads in fantasy realms like “EverQuest.” But a third option is catching on: virtual worlds that have the graphic richness of massively multiplayer online role-playing games (MMORPGs) but without the gory missions.

The best virtual worlds have smooth chat features and realistic graphic environments, and they offer subscribers the ability to create unique avatars and to wander freely. To keep virtual visitors coming back, sites must also offer compelling activities, such as games you can play with other avatars and even home building. "The more the sites encourage people to build stuff in their worlds, the more likely users will stay," says Joe Lazlo, an analyst for Jupiter Media. These “worlds” are virtual alternatives to real life.

:::This Week's Recommended Reading:::
Learn more about Virtual Worlds by reading this interesting book: e-topia (Paperback)by William J. Mitchell

BODY FRIENDLY ADVICE...4 Steps to Setting Up Your Computer Workstation

STEP 1: Your Chair
* Push your hips as far back as they can go in the chair.
* Adjust the seat height so your feet are flat on the floor and your knees equal to, or slightly lower than, your hips.
* Adjust the back of the chair to a 100°-110° reclined angle. Make sure your upper and lower back are supported. Use inflatable cushions or small pillows if necessary. If you have an active back mechanism on your chair, use it to make frequent position changes.
* Adjust the armrests so that your shoulders are relaxed. If your armrests are in the way, remove them.

STEP 2: Your Keyboard
* An articulating keyboard tray can provide optimal positioning of input devices. However, it should accommodate the mouse, provide leg clearance, and have an adjustable height and tilt mechanism. The tray should not push you too far away from other work materials such as your telephone.
Pull up close to your keyboard.
* Position the keyboard directly in front of your body.
Determine what section of the board you use most frequently, and readjust the keyboard so that section is centered with your body.
* Adjust the keyboard height so that your shoulders are relaxed, your elbows are in a slightly open position (100° to 110°), and your wrists and hands are straight.
The tilt of your keyboard is dependent upon your sitting position. Use the keyboard tray mechanism, or keyboard feet, to adjust the tilt. If you sit in a forward or upright position, try tilting your keyboard away from you at a negative angle. If you are reclined, a slight positive tilt will help maintain a straight wrist position.
* Wristrests can help to maintain neutral postures and pad hard surfaces. However, the wristrest should only be used to rest the palms of the hands between keystrokes. Resting on the wristrest while typing is not recommended. Avoid using excessively wide wristrests, or wristrests that are higher than the space bar of your keyboard.
* Place the pointer as close as possible to the keyboard. Placing it on a slightly inclined surface, or using it on a mouse-bridge placed over the 10-keypad, can help to bring it closer.
If you do not have a fully adjustable keyboard tray, you may need to adjust your workstation height, the height of your chair, or use a seat cushion to get in a comfortable position. Remember to use a footrest if your feet dangle.

STEP 3: Monitor
Incorrect positioning of the screen and source documents can result in awkward postures. Adjust the monitor and source documents so that your neck is in a neutral and relaxed position.
Center the monitor directly in front of you above your keyboard.
* Position the top of the monitor approximately 2-3” above seated eye level. (If you wear bifocals, lower the monitor to a comfortable reading level.)
* Sit at least an arm's length away from the screen and then adjust the distance for your vision.
* Reduce glare by careful positioning of the screen.
* Place screen at right angles to windows
* Adjust curtains or blinds as needed
* Adjust the vertical screen angle and screen controls to minimize glare from overhead lights
Other techniques to reduce glare include use of optical glass glare filters, light filters, or secondary task lights

STEP 4: Pauses and Breaks
Once you have correctly set up your computer workstation use good work habits. No matter how perfect the environment, prolonged, static postures will inhibit blood circulation and take a toll on your body.
* Take short 1-2 minute stretch breaks every 20-30 minutes. After each hour of work, take a break or change tasks for at least 5-10 minutes. Always try to get away from your computer during lunch breaks.
* Avoid eye fatigue by resting and refocusing your eyes periodically. Look away from the monitor and focus on something in the distance.
* Rest your eyes by covering them with your palms for 10-15 seconds.
* Use correct posture when working. Keep moving as much as possible.

Source: UCLA Ergonomic Research

IN-BOX We appreciate your feedback!

Thank you, very good, very interesting [webpage] -- I wish you the best. Thanks for all of the information. From = gcs.phn@gmail.com, Lisa Beck

I like. I am not customary to appreciate the digital art. I like the relief, the juxtaposed colors, the beautiful grotesco, and at the same time, creatures who are to me extremely attractive. From = to albertoyraquel@speedy.com.ar, Quela

Events:
Urban Screens and Public Space International Seminar September 28, 29 and 30, 2009 @Medialab- Prado Madrid (Spain)
Complete program and RSVP: Public Space International Seminar
Contact: difusion@medialab-prado.es +34 91 369 2303
Venue: Medialab-Prado Plaza de las Letras

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“IN A DREAM YOU SAW A WAY TO SURVIVE AND YOU WERE FULL OF JOY.”
:::Jenny Holzer:::

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