Second Life being used for educational purposes is nothing new, but it is always interesting to see this get such publicity. I imagine that picking up English as a Second Language in Second Life can be a cheap, no pressure way of boosting one's vocabulary. One of the people interviewed talks about how they dressed up in pirate gear and taught ESL students new words in practical use like "loot" and "booty". They also loaded up particular scenes like restaurants and had ESL students practice ordering food, a very useful exercise.
I have made several sl friends from other countries who have said they have learned English by being in-world and talking to English speakers. They keep Babel Fish open to help with interpretation, but learn much more quickly. And... when I attempt to respond in their language... they always say "don't bother"... they'd rather speak in English (and maybe I'm that bad)...
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