Will your next poster presentation be in a virtual world?

 

This survey is now closed

 

Purpose of this survey
This survey forms part of a Science Communication course at Birkbeck College, University of London, undertaken by Frances van Klaveren. The purpose of this survey is to explore scientists’ attitude towards the development of new technologies which enable us to organize conferences in virtual worlds. Science conferences are a very important communication platform within scientific communities and the way in which we organize science conferences can greatly influence the effectiveness of communication and networking amongst scientists.

 

How to complete this survey
In order to complete the survey, please follow this survey link. The link will direct you to an external website where the questions will be displayed. The progress bar on the top of the page will show you how much of the survey you have completed. Please use the ‘Next’ and ‘Prev’ buttons on the bottom of the page to navigate through the list of questions. In case you experience any problems with this survey, please contact Frances van Klaveren. Responses will be collected until 18 November 2009.

 

Confidentiality
All responses collected for this research will be treated as private documents to ensure confidentiality.

 

Question types
In this survey you will find a collection of multiple-choice questions, ranking questions and open ended questions. Instructions will be given with each question.

 

Terminology
Virtual world: a computer based simulated environment in which users interact with each other through three dimensional models that represent their users. Examples of virtual worlds are Second Life and Active Worlds. Find out more about Second Life.
Avatar: a computer generated representation of a user. In virtual worlds avatars are three dimensional models which can be customized by its users. Avatars can also be two dimensional icons (pictures) as used in forums and other (online) computer communities.
Virtual conference: a conference which is solely organized in a virtual world.
Face-to-face conference: a conference where all participating delegates are in the same physical location.

 

Further information
If you have any queries or would like to receive further information, please contact Frances van Klaveren.
Email: conferences@biochemistry.org
Tel: +44(0)20 7280 4150