What is a computer avatar?
A computer avatar is a graphic image
or file that represents the person using the computer.
For example, below you will find a
picture of me.
Now you will see five different
avatars of me.
Now let's explore how two different
web resources define the computer avatar.
First, according to
http://www.wisegeek.org/what-is-a-computer-avatar.htm#didyouknowout a computer avatar is a personalized graphic
file or rendering that represents a computer user. There are basically two
types: those used at websites, such as on Web exchange boards, and those used
in gaming and virtual worlds.
The simplest type of avatar is a small
graphics file used on websites. Websites that offer chat boards often allow
members to upload
an image to represent themselves. The avatar can be a real-life digital photo of
the person using it, but is more often an image intended to be a creative alter
ego. This might be a game-rendered snapshot of a beast, hero, or heroine; a
humorous picture of a pet or cartoonish character; or a design that makes a
statement. The image appears alongside the user’s posts, easily identifying the
author for others at a glance. Sometimes, a website will offer a generic pool of avatars for those who have not yet created their own. Commonly, the user replaces the generic image as soon as he or she learns how to create a personal one. Many websites offering services that use avatars provide instructions on how to create and upload them.
Now according to
a computer avatar is the embodiment of a person or idea. However, in the
computer world, an avatar specifically refers to a character that represents an
online user. Avatars are commonly used in multiplayer gaming, online communities,
and Web forums.
Online
multiplayer role-playing games (MMORPGs) such as World of Warcraft and
EverQuest allow users to create custom characters. These characters serve as
the players' avatars. For example, a World of Warcraft player may choose a
Paladin with blue armor as his avatar. As the player progresses in the game,
his character may gain items and experience, which allows the avatar to evolve
over time.
Avatars are also
used in online communities, such as Second Life and The Sims Online. These
avatars can be custom-designed to create a truly unique appearance for each
player. Once a user has created an avatar, he or she becomes part of an online
community filled with other users' avatars. Players can interact with other
avatars and talk to them using text or voice chat. It's no surprise that
"Second Life" refers to a virtual life that players live through
their avatars.
Finally, avatars
may also seen in Web forums. Online discussion boards typically require users
to register and provide information about themselves. Many give users the
option to select an image file that represents the user's persona. This image,
combined with a made-up username, serves as a person's avatar. For example, a
user may select a picture of a Pac-Man and choose the name "pac32"
for his avatar. This avatar typically appears next to each posting the user
contributes in an online forum.
Regardless of
the application, avatars allow people to represent themselves online in
whatever way they want. They may be considered alter-egos, since users can
customize characters that are completely different than their actual personas.
On the next blog
post we will discuss how computer avatars can be used in instruction.
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