Academic Services

We normally only allow access to our Second Life Research Panel on a full-service basis; however, we do supply subjects or data only to select academic institutions.

We know that one of the primary challenges academic researchers face in Second Life is sourcing research participants. It can be difficult and time-consuming to find people to participate in research projects and to ensure that samples meet the quality standards required for publication in peer-reviewed journals. We help academic researchers overcome those problems so that they can concentrate on the research itself.

Sampling Services

The Second Life Research Panel that we maintain is large and subject to ongoing quality control measures to ensure valid and reliable results by reducing the likelihood of one real life person participating in a research project using more than one avatar (violating assumptions about independent observations) or providing inaccurate information just to get the participation incentives (adding unnecessary “noise” to the data). Using the panel as a sampling frame, we implement whatever sampling procedures are required for a given project (simple random sample, stratified sample, etc.) using a variety of different demographic, psychographic, and behavioral criteria. Once a sample has been selected, we have automated systems for issuing invitations to participate in the research, having people sign up for time-slots where that is required, and paying incentives to those who successfully complete their participation.

Additional Services

Besides providing sampling services, we can also help academic institutions collect or analyze data if needed. We can implement surveys, moderate focus groups, or conduct interviews on your behalf. We can also perform whatever forms of qualitative or quantitative analysis are required for your project.

How it Works

Please contact us if you are interested in having your academic institution work with us in Second Life. We will provide you with our Academic Services Agreement, which outlines the way the process works, pricing, and conditions such as agreeing to abide by our privacy policy.