According to the BBC, Edinburgh University plans to hold a ‘virtual graduation ceremony’ for students on its e-learning course who are unable to make the trip to Edinburgh to join in the graduation celebrations with their fellow peers. The university will then broadcast the ceremony at its McEwan Hall on to the Second Life web community.
Students are able to don caps and gowns for their online avatars, receive their hard earned degrees in avatar form, on the college’s virtual campus, and even listen to commencement speakers as they stir graduating seniors’ emotions.
Associate lecturer Fiona Littleton said: “This is the first time this has been attempted at the university.
“Students will be able to download robes and University of Edinburgh hoods for their avatars to wear during the graduation event, and everyone will have free access to a celebratory reception.”
In June, Second Life hosted its first college graduation for online students graduating from Bryant & Stratton College, and Second Life founder Philip Rosedale was the guest speaker.
“These graduates are pioneers, overcoming life’s obstacles to pursue their educational goals through online education and start a new life,” says Scott Traylor, director of admissions of the 150-year-old college. “It is particularly fitting and gratifying that they celebrate their achievement with Philip Rosedale, the man who pioneered a whole new virtual world through Second Life.”