Second Life to support Multicultural Literacy: Pre- and In-service Teachers' Perceptions and Expectations

Abstract

The purpose of the study was to examine preservice teachers’ attitudes using Second Life for multicultural literacy and to explore effective strategies to implement this technology in teacher preparation programs. Participants included thirty-six preserve teachers from early childhood, elementary, and secondary education programs. Participants indicated that interacting with cultural artifacts and diverse populations promoted multiculturalism, 47.5% reported that Second Life supported the development of multicultural attitudes and 50% indicated that Second Life can support multicultural respect. Additionally, 33.4% considered Second Life an effective learning tool for K-12 education while 40% remained undecided. Participants questioned the veracity of certain objects, often failed to communicate with individuals from other cultures, and worried about inappropriate content. Despite these limitations, Second Life could serve as a rich environment to build multicultural knowledge through culturally representative locations, artifacts, and communication. Suggestions for incorporating multicultural experiences via Second Life are presented.