April 19, 2007
Guru has made a great success of his life. But that doesn't stop him wondering whether he might do things differently if he had his time again.
So Guru has tried to set himself up on Second Life - an online three-dimensional alternate universe complete with its own currency - but with little success (Guru suspects he needs to part with real money to take part in this unreal experience).
The site proudly tells Guru that he is one of 5.6 million residents, but Yours Truly has not yet met any of his fellow avatars - the idealised 3D personas that people use as their online identities.
Others seem to be having more success. Indeed there are reports of the first Second Life millionaire having made her money from dealing in virtual property.
And now it seems that international management schools are getting in on the act. INSEAD has set up a facility in Second Life "to supplement in-person learning".
INSEAD, which describes itself as 'The Business School for the World' and which has bricks and mortar establishments in France and Singapore, is currently 'building' its new Second Life campus.
According to Business Week:
It already boasts a tree-lined walkway, large screens that provide information about the school, and some plush chairs. Eventually, students will be able to download documents, work in teams, and meet alumni at a campus café.
Guru might even consider lecturing at this virtual college. If he can find it.
