notes1

Here are some notes for you to consider:
1. The CORE or ROOT of this project is the process of research and dissemination. I am most interested in what you gather and how you share it with others.

2. The program, Second Life, is just the tool (or medium) we are using to share it. Some of you may not be able to use SL because of your computer specifications or because of your internet connection. This is OK. You can STILL participate.

3. The first step will be to decide WHAT information you need to share that deals with your topic. You might want to gather it all (list it, link to it, etc) on the WIKI page I created for your team (these are located at http://blithedaleromanceproject.wikispaces.com/) Simply clikc EDIT THIS PAGE, add your material, and SAVE. Only one person can edit at a time. Another option is to use a free program called Google Docs (http://docs.google.com). This is a word document that can be shared with multiple people and written on at the same time. Another tool is Penzu (http://penzu.com) where you can take live notes and then share them with your team members (and save them). Whatever format you use, you can COPY AND PASTE from there into Second Life.

4. The second step will be to decide HOW to share it. For example, is it important that people know HOW people dressed? if so, you might want to put together a video using OneTrueMedia (http://onetruemedia.com) or Animoto (http://animoto.com) or Slideshare (http://slideshare.net). Is it important that people HEAR music of the period? If so, find open content mp3 files (copyright free). Are there details that are important to the period or topic? If you write them up, make sure to use shorter paragraphs (and more of them) than long winded essays. People tend to read shorter blurbs.

5. The third step is to make sure that you document everything. Every image, every sound, ever piece of text should be accurately cited. In a notecard, simply place the citation at the bottom of the card. For music and video, simply tell me the information, and I will help place it for you.

6. Remember that you are not alone in this; I am your partner in this endeavor. I don't expect you to know how to build in 3D. Your job is to communicate effectively with me and to work with me to help build up your content area. I will guide you along the way, point out gaps as I see them, and (of course) correct grammar, mechanics, and MLA errors.

7. I am available to come to group meetings in BB, and I will gladly meet your team in SL.

Good luck, and HAVE FUN! Remember the SPIRIT of the time (carpe diem...).

Best,

Beth R-G