The Future of Academic Conferencing: Virtual Spaces as the New Norm
The COVID-19 pandemic has forced many academic societies to rethink traditional conference models. The Comparative and International Education Society (CIES) provides a compelling case study of how a large in-person conference was successfully transitioned to a virtual format. This shift not only addressed immediate public health concerns but also highlighted broader issues of accessibility, environmental impact, and inclusivity in academic conferencing.
Key Findings from the vCIES Experience
The transition to a virtual conference was not without its challenges. However, it also offered significant opportunities for innovation and inclusivity. Here are some key takeaways:
- Accessibility: Virtual conferences eliminate geographical and financial barriers, allowing broader participation from diverse backgrounds.
- Environmental Impact: The vCIES saved approximately 4,000 metric tons of CO2 emissions, equivalent to the carbon footprint of 100,000 trees.
- Inclusivity: The virtual format allowed for more equitable participation, welcoming families, children, and even pets, thereby humanizing the academic exchange.
- Networking: While virtual networking poses challenges, innovative solutions like virtual coffee breaks and speed mentoring sessions were implemented to facilitate meaningful interactions.
Implications for Practitioners
For practitioners in the field of speech-language pathology and beyond, the vCIES experience offers valuable lessons. Virtual conferences can serve as platforms for knowledge exchange without the constraints of physical attendance. They also provide an opportunity to engage with a wider audience, including stakeholders who may not typically attend in-person events.
Encouraging Further Research
The success of the vCIES underscores the need for further research into the efficacy and impact of virtual conferencing. Practitioners are encouraged to explore how these platforms can be optimized for better outcomes in their respective fields. This could include investigating new technologies that enhance virtual interactions or studying the long-term effects of reduced academic mobility on knowledge production.
Conclusion
The vCIES has set a precedent for future academic conferences. As we continue to navigate the uncertainties of the post-COVID era, virtual conferences offer a viable and necessary alternative to traditional models. They not only address pressing environmental and accessibility concerns but also open up new avenues for interdisciplinary collaboration and innovation.
To read the original research paper, please follow this link: Academic conferencing in the age of COVID-19 and climate crisis: The case of the Comparative and International Education Society (CIES).
