The document discusses 3D distance education and multi-user virtual environments (MUVEs) such as Second Life. It notes that MUVEs allow for an immersive 3D environment that can be inhabited, explored, and designed. MUVEs offer a space for taking on different identities, reflecting, being creative, interacting with others, and forming communities. Some learner issues to consider with distance courses include isolation, expectations, building community, cultures, experience, and individual differences. MUVEs provide broader access to both specific learning communities and larger communities of practice.