Virtual Journalism Summit

Erika Driver, the co-founder of ThinkBalm, appeared in WSU’s CUB Auditorium, in the CUB auditorium within Second Life, and on streaming video (mutual virtual collaboration) for the Virtual Journalism Summit at 11 a.m. on April 6.

For the first time on campus, a lecture was experienced by attendees, avatars and watchers far beyond the physical location.

Driver’s presentation focused on how immersive internet is changing the work force – for journalists as well as others – because it’s about more virtual worlds and goes on into campuses and organizations.

For example, the ThinkBalm Innovation Community, consisting of about 260 members, meets together to formulate innovate ideas and push concepts forward.  To date, more than 80 ideas have been discussed and more than 24 immersive events have been held.

Using an innovative in-world slideshow, Driver explained the benefits of 3D immersive internet.  She noted that groups can’t always meet in person and travel can be difficult, but 3D allows participants to feel connected and engaged while being active in the same virtual space and at the same time.  3D collaboration tools also add to the interactive experience.

Immersive internet can be used for professional role playing, teamwork exercises, trainings, presentations, lectures, and interactive tours.  Driver also demonstrated how artifacts such as polling tools and mind maps aid in understanding for participants. 

According to Driver, some companies currently using immersive internet for these activities include IBM, who has saved about 4/5 of traditional costs for their program, Academy of Technology, The Coaches Center, and Lenovo Lounge, who has seen an increase in customer conversion rate through increased customer service.

Driver also touched on how immersive internet has and will influence journalism.  Though adoption of these new technologies will take time, Driver believes conducting interviews will change since you can interview any person at any place or time in world. 

It has also allowed journalists to report on immersive events, rehearse for difficult or dangerous conditions and enhance audience engagement.  Drive predicts understanding immersive internets will also present journalists with an opportunity for a competitive advantage.     

To complete her lecture, Driver took a poll of attendees on campus and in Second Life on whether or not they buy into the idea and whether they think it’ll work.  Everyone in Second Life agreed that it would but only one-third to one-half in the Pullman audience agreed and a few adamantly voted against it.

Sara J. Merriman, a junior communication major attended the summit.  When asked a similar question, Merriman said, “It’s cool to see (the) potential and it shows technological advancement.  It’s mind-blowing we’re at this point but what bothers me is personal engagement and distancing from reality.”

Through a Q–and–A session, Driver fielded questions regarding how the technology will catch on, the learning curve for employees, the benefits of 3D mind mapping, professionalism and differences between it and traditional journalism.