TCC2009_Getting_Started_in_Second_Life

=TCC 2009 Getting Started in Second Life=

Welcome! In addition to our TCC 2009 conference sessions at LearningTimes.net, several of the TCC 2009 conference events are held in Second Life. Use this guide to
 * set up your free Second Life account
 * download a free Second Life software client
 * get started using Second Life

Second Life is an online virtual world that is accessible using a free software client that you download and a free account. Free accounts have many of the same benefits as a Premium account, including content creation on public sandboxes, visiting public sites, using voice to communicate and enjoying audio and video Quicktime content.

A Premium account allows users to own and control land. Land in a virtual world is a visual representation of a location for storing 3D web site content.

Create an Account
1. Visit http://secondlife.com and click the gold box on the upper right to get started.

Tip: If you want to start on the NMC Orientation site, visit http://sl.nmc.org/join

Tip: Only a few new accounts can be created from the same IP address at the same time. If your students are creating accounts, using the NMC join link may help.

2. Create an account. Each account uses a unique email address, and you select a first name, last name and password to log into Second Life. Do not forget your case sensitive password!

Tip: For common first names, it may be easier to explore your prospective account name on the Second Life site before using the NMC site.

3. Download the software for your Windows, Mac or Linux system.

4. Load your software. At the bottom of the Second Life client, enter your login name and password.

Tip: If you have problems loading the software, select the preferences at the top left of the login display window. The Preferences command appears when you hover your cursor over the location where the Edit menu would reside. In your preferences area, click the Graphics tab and check the Custom box on the far right to adjust or minimize your graphics settings.

Tip: Questions about using Second Life or adjusting your preferences? Visit http://secondlife.com and log into your account to access the support or tutorials pages. There are many video tutorials through the Second Life site or on You Tube.

Using Second Life
As you enter Second Life, your avatar appears on a region or island.