Education in Virtual Worlds, Identity and Expression, Second Life

Getting Psyched About Avatars

The benefits of immersive environments for psychology will be explored by a new working group, to be launched this coming Wednesday in Second Life. The group, called the Psychology of Immersive Environments Technology Working Group (or PIE.TWG for short) will be responsible for:

1) advancing basic and applied research on the psychology of immersive environments, 2) promoting
immersive experiences and programs that are psychologically beneficial, 3) defining best practices for the early identification and assistance of at-risk users of immersive environments and the treatment of individuals currently manifesting symptoms of immersive disorder, and 4) collecting and disseminating scientific and professional information on the psychology of immersive environments.

Now, I’m not sure what immersive disorder is, but there’s a hint of it perhaps in a stunning post that Hamlet pointed out from New World Notes.

If you’re interested in learning more, join them on Wednesday July 15, 2009 at 7pm ET (4pm Pacific / SL time) in Second Life.

During the PIE.TWG launch event, which is open to the public, the PIE.TWG charter, mission, and goals will be presented and discussed. Details on how to join and participate in this group will also be provided at the launch event.

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