Due to CCN Day, there was no EIR lesson today. Nevertheless, my classmates and I still have to complete our activity and update our blog. With everyone having their own tight schedule, it is surely better than to attend a make-up lesson.

Today's E-Learning activity is Virtual Shopping Spree on Second Life. I visited Roosa and below are my views on this virtual experience.

a)what products/services are offered

At the doorstep of r800 Bettie’s at Roosa I was captured by a donation signboard “Relay For Life”.

Near the entrance, there was a big sign stressing the point that “refunds and exchanges cannot be given, only replacements”.

The place is divided into two parts with first level selling 1930s-1950s outfits and the second storey offering modern day accessories, furnishings and trends.

b)the shopping environment/ambiance (eg look & feel?)

Upon entering r800 Bettie’s at Roosa, ballad music from the 19030s-1950s were played. The feeling was sophisticatedly lively. The ambience was peaceful and very warm. =)

c)accessibility to the products/services offered (free or chargeable)

The first storey of the shopping place displays women’s dresses and fashion design clothing. It also includes men’s smart elite’s outfits. Both from the 50s.

The second level are presented with Studio Apartment furnishings like “Modern Couch”, different types of boots, current hair trends, ladies’ shoes and 1950s Corset Set.

Bettie’s even recommend it’s customers to THEHATSHOP for those who want to buy 50s hats that goes with Bettie’s outfits and footwear.

To purchase the products, buyers have to subscribe to the Bettie’s Group.

d)user-friendliness & flexibility (eg moving around, adding to your inventory, speed of access, help facilities)

The two-storey shopping place at Roosa makes it easy for anyone to to scan the place.

However, the place only provides staircases. There were no escalators for those who would have difficulty climbing up the stairs. But then again, virtual life never seem to get tired. Haha.

e)people you meet during your virtual shopping

There wasn’t anyone at the shop when I visited the place.

Reflection:

a)How does this experience compare with your E-Shopping Spree on Internet you did in Practical 1&2?

The difference is

i) In Second Life, I get to scan around the shop before I make the decision to purchase my chosen items while

ii) In real E-Shopping Spree, I have to insert the keywords to get what I want. Most of the time, the products called for are far from what I was searching.

The similarity is I have to be careful when spending both for real and virtually. In 2nd Life, players do purchase items using their own real-world money. It is absurd how some are spending on things that they can’t use for real. I guess different people has different level of satisfaction.

b)What have you gained from this e-learning experience?

I realize that imaginary objects like those in Second Life do have similar needs and wants like us even if they have more power to do things. Then again, who's controlling who?

c)What is the one most challenging experience you had?

To take an object.