What is the "Stepping into..." Series?

What if, in addition to reading about chemicals in our environment, we could actually see common poisons all around us?

What if, instead of reading about the structures in a cell, we could enter a cell and see them for ourselves?

What if, instead of staring at a two-dimensional website, we could walk into and through the page of the screen?

The technology of virtual worlds is opening up a new universe of possibilities for students and lifelong learners. Many experts say we are moving from the area of the two-dimensional webpage to the era of the three-dimensional virtual worlds. The "Stepping into" series of conferences is your chance to learn about, and experience for yourself, the power of virtual worlds. Over the coming months, we will explore some of the best and most creative work being done in virtual worlds, in the areas of history, literature, health, science and more.

Stepping into Science:
Jan. 30th & Feb. 13th, 2009

The "Stepping into Science" Conference will take place on January 30th, 2009. (Note: AS OF FEB. 11TH, REGISTRATION FOR BOTH DATES WAS CLOSED DUE TO CONFERENCE CAPACITY BEING REACHED. THANK YOU FOR YOUR INTEREST.) During this conference, we will talk about and actually visit some of the best and most creative work being done in promoting science in a virtual world environment. It will be held entirely in the virtual world of Second Life.

During the conference, participants will:

* Hear a keynote presentations from Troy McConaghy(Troy McLuhan in Second Life).

Troy McConaghy's educational background is in physics, applied mathematics, space exploration, and astrodynamics. He's been involved with science-related projects in Second Life for over three years and was a founding member of the SciLands, Second Life's science-themed continent

* Walk through and learn about a variety of science-related sites in Second Life
* Participate in Breakout Sessions presented by scientists doing collaborative research in virtual worlds, and teachers using virtual world environments to help bring science alive.
* Take part in a panel discussion with a variety of leaders who are using virtual worlds to promote science.

The cost of this day-long conference is only $65.00. To learn more about the conference,or to register, see the links at left.

Special Event - Science Friday on NPR

We are excited to announce that participants in the "Stepping into Science" conference have been invited to be part of the live audience for Science Friday. Science Friday is a weekly radio show that is broadcast live from Second Life onto public radio stations across the U.S. Conference attendees will be able to participate in the show, including possibly asking questions of the show's guests.

Who Should Attend?

This conference is designed for scientists, educators, librarians, professors or anyone who is dedicated to using the latest technologies to to teach and promote a love of science.

How do I attend a Virtual Conference?

Participants in this conference will enter the virtual world of Second Life to attend presentations and visits simulations. They will open a Second Life account, create an "avatar," or virtual representation of themselves, and attend all sessions in a 3-D environment. Participants will hear presenters speak over their computer speakers, and be able to respond and interact in ways similar to a live conference. An orientation for new Second Life users will be included in the conference fee, and is required for those new to Second Life.

A Second Life account is free, although participants should note that Second Life does not run well on all computers. To learn more or to set up a Second Life account, go to Second Life

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