SLOODLE (Simulation Linked Object Oriented Dynamic Learning Environment) is a dynamic learning environment which links a 3D virtual world to an open source learning management system. It was developed by Jeremy Kemp and Daniel Livingstone. They wrote a paper outlining an open source project they created that could integrate learning and teaching in a virtual learning environment. Most of the information regarding the open source project could be found on http://www.sloodle.org, however that site is no longer accessible. However, most of the original software related to this project can be found in GitHub.
Life Changes, LLC, in conjunction with a Morgan State University research team led by Dr. Carl White, has focused their efforts on Moodle (an open source learning management system) and OpenSimulator (an open source multi-platform, multi-user 3D application server software). As a result, we have developed this website as a collection point for SLOODLE related information. The information shown here is strictly for reference, and in most cases, a resurrection of information previously found on the internet. This documentation focuses solely on the interaction of SLOODLE with Moodle and OpenSimulator. Although there are similarities between an OpenSimulator server (open-source) and a Second Life® server (proprietary), this site does not provide any information related to the latter.
Tools and Features
SLOODLE provides a range of tools for supporting learning and teaching to the immersive virtual world; tools which are fully integrated with a tried and tested web-based learning management system used by hundreds of thousands of educators and students worldwide.
- Connect to a chatroom with the Web Intercom. Students can participate in chats in Second Life using the accessible Moodle chatroom. Discussions can be archived securely in a Moodle database.
- Make presentations with the Presenter. Slides can be quickly uploaded to Moodle in a variety of formats, then viewed in-world as part of a live presentation or asynchronously in Moodle.
- Gather feedback with the Choice.
- Manage in-world assignments with the Assignment Drop-Box. Review grades quickly and easily in the standard Moodle gradebook.
- Distribute inventory with the Vendor.
- Link identities of Moodle users and avatars with the Reg-enrol booth.
- Take quizzes in-world with real-time feedback with the in-world Quiz Chair, integrated with the Moodle gradebook.
- Track points in in-world quizzes and games with the Scoreboard.
- Manage scenes of different objects with the Rezzer. 3D objects and activities can be easily arranged, saved and recreated.
- See the full list of tools for more.