Simulating culture: An experiment using a multi-user virtual environment

With increased levels of global trade, foreign policy making, foreign travel, and distance collaboration using the Internet, the issue of culture takes center stage. One needs to better understand how cultures form, and what culture means in terms of behavior norms, history, and sociology. We have constructed a simulated multi-user virtual environment using the technology Second Life, to facilitate the learning of Chinese culture. On our virtual island, Second China, we have constructed a set of immersive scenarios, buildings, and interactions with virtual humans. We have also constructed spaces for culturally relevant entertainment, as well as spaces for exploring news and current affairs. Content is created using 2D Web pages and 3D objects with hyperlinks and teleportation that connect media and people. We present the technical and cultural implementation of the island, and we cover issues, challenges, and lessons learned.