• Journal of the Korea Computer Graphics Society
• /
• v.14 no.4
• /
• pp.35-39
• /
• 2008

A computer supported collaborative system provides with a shared virtual workspace over the Internet where its remote users cooperate in order to achieve their goals by overcoming problems caused by distance and time. VRMMS (Virtual Reality Molecular Modeling System) [1] is a VR based collaborative system where biologists can remotely participate in and exercise molecular modeling tasks such as viewing three dimensional structures of molecular models, confirming results of molecular simulations and providing with feedbacks for the next simulations. Biologists can utilize VRMMS in executing molecular simulations. However, first-time users and beginners need to spend some time for studying and practicing in order to skillfully manipulate molecular models and the system. The best way to resolve the problem is to have a face-to-face session of teaching and learning VRMMS. However, it is not practically recommended in the sense that the users are remotely located. It follows that the learning time could last longer than desired. In this paper, we propose to use Second Life [2] combining with VRMMS for removing the problem. It can be used in building a shared workplace over the Internet where molecular simulations using VRMMS can be exercised, taught, learned and practiced. Through the web, users can collaborate with each other using VRMMS. Their avatars and tools of molecular simulations can be remotely utilized in order to provide with senses of 'being there' to the remote users. The users can discuss, teach and learn over the Internet. The shared workspaces for discussion and education are designed and implemented in Second Life. Since the activities in Second Life and VRMMS are designed to realistic, the system is expected to help users in improving their learning and experimental performances.