Alexandria - A Virtual Repository of Knowledge

Abstract

Virtual worlds are development platforms, similar to sandbox games where users are able to interact with each other with no predefined goal. Due to immersive visual feedback, these platforms have been successfully used in the past to create lesson plans and materials used for undergraduate and graduate education as well as recreation. To complement that effort, we have built a virtual library that would conveniently offer reference materials to support learning activities. We present Alexandria, a Linden-based virtual library that uses synchronization techniques based on the OpenSim Scripting Language and server-side file-synchronization software in order to allow the stashing and dissemination of educational and recreational material within Virtual Worlds.