THE University of Western Australia’s presence in the virtual world of Second Life has been shortlisted into the top 10 from more than 130 nominations worldwide for an international competition.

The Linden Prize awards US$10,000 (A$12,000) to an individual for an innovative project that improves the way people work, learn and communicate in their daily lives outside of the virtual world.

The virtual incarnation of Jay Jay Jegathesan / Image: Courtesy UWA

Jay Jay Jegathesan, manager of the School of Physics, was nominated for his role in taking the project to where it stands now, after it was launched by Professor Alan Robson on the 2nd of October 2009.
 
Jay Jay said that the reason for the nomination was the successful integration of four main elements which are the representation of iconic real-life architecture, teaching through the second life 3D virtual medium in degree programs, visualisation research, and the promotion of arts. 
 
“The UWA presence is comprehensive and caters to every strata of society, ranging from the general public, current and prospective students, alumni, visitors, and researchers,” he said.
 
“None of this would be possible without the incredible support of all the 'Angels' who have dropped in at various points in the evolution of UWA within the virtual world. From those in real life such as Professor Alan Robson, Professor Ted Snell, Professor Ian McArthur, Dr Chris Thorne, Paul Bourke to the wondrous avatars of Second Life, quadrapop Lane, Raphaella Nightfire, White Lebed and others from around the world too numerous to name. This has been an amazing journey and adventure, yet the journey has only truly just begun.”
 
Anyone around the world can log-in to Second Life, which is a 3d virtual world, get an ‘avatar’ and walk around the campus grounds, which have been recreated, including Winthrop Clock Tower, the Sunken Gardens, The Reflecting Pond and also the peacocks, ducks, rainbow lorikeets and galahs that are so much a part of the real campus.
 
The winner will be announced on Monday, May 31. For more details visit: http://uwainsl.blogspot.com/
 
To find the UWA presence on Second Life go to: http://uwainsl.blogspot.com/

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