Technological Minimalism versus Second Life: Time for Content Minimalism

Abstract

This chapter addresses a certain resistance against the use of Second Life in education, which is based on the theory of technological minimalism. The main arguments behind this resistance and the theory’s basic concepts are discussed. Then a critique of an example of the application of technological minimalism to the use of Second Life in education follows. Technological minimalism advocates the minimum use of technology needed to transmit content. The text argues that in the current stage of education technology potential educational tools should not be chosen based on that criterion. Technology and education cannot be easily separated anymore. As a conclusion, this chapter suggests a new form of minimalism: a minimalism of content.