Virtual State Fair

What to do? What to do? What to do?

I find myself coming back to this question each time I log into my virtual reality. Fortunately for users like me, Second Life anticipated such uncertainty and generated tools that provide suggestions as to how avatars should spend their time. Among these tools is the Destination Guide; a frequently updated section that highlights some of the best in-world locations and resident creations. For newbies in particular, this is a great resource that prompts exploration of Second Life’s most interesting features.

Currently, one of the most popular cyber events is the Cooperative Extension System’s Virtual State Fair. Here individuals may experience regular fair activities like games, exhibits, rides, live music performances and educational conferences. When I first teleported to the Virtual State Fair I was given a schedule of events, so if desired, I could come back at a given time to catch a show or lecture. I never went back, but I was able to sit in on the last few minutes of a meeting conducted by a (supposed) professor leading a seminar regarding soil testing and fertilizer. Fascinating, I know.

The content was unquestionably dull. The process, however, was rather intriguing. This man’s avatar was at a podium in the front of the room, and approximately 15 others were sitting on folding chairs attentively listening to him speak. This was the first time I’ve seen more than a few avatars in the same place, functioning and communicating cohesively. It definitely gave me a better sense of Second Life as a virtual community.

Furthermore, while most communication on Second Life happens via instant messaging, this man was using a microphone connected to his computer to converse audibly. I suppose occurrences like this aren’t particularly uncommon, but it was my first encounter and I was a little taken aback when my speakers suddenly switched from fair music to the sound of a man’s voice.

Next time I’ll be ready. And there will be a next time because I’m definitely interested in tracking down and participating in more gatherings like the above – although preferably with more interesting discussion topics than fertilizer.