Class 11: IMMERSIVE LIBRARIES AND MUSEUMS

Source:  Immersive Education Libraries and Museums Technology Working Group (LAM.TWG)

Journal of Immersive Education (JiED)

          The Libraries and Museums Technology Working Group is made up of a group of professionals involved with the Immersive Education Initiative (iED).  This collaborative effort helps define and implement the applications and standards of use related to the library and museum services available through iED.  Membership is open to all members of the iED community, with preferential experience as follows:  real-world experience with libraries and museums, digital experience with libraries and museums, or experience with developing or using virtual worlds.
          Academic learning environments are constantly struggling to keep pace with technological advances.  In order to expand accessibility and maintain relevance to a rapidly growing, tech-savvy audience, Academia has to look beyond the physical constraints of traditional learning institutions.  The LAM TWG was created to develop and maintain technologies that allow library and museum services to transcend physical space and thrive in an online world.  This is accomplished by leveraging virtual and 3D technologies such as:  virtual/augmented reality, Voice over IP (VOIP), web cams, and digital media.
          LAM TWG strives to develop community best practices, standards, and technologies concerning library and museum services within iED.   Examples of how this is being implemented are illustrated through their Use Cases.  Immersive Education study rooms bring students and faculty together in a virtual, collaborative environment that allows presentation of materials and innovative learning experiences that would not be possible in a physical space.   Wider and more diverse audiences can benefit from the services LAM TWG provides.
          LAM TWG meets approximately twice per year in person and holds monthly teleconferences or virtual meetings.  All meeting are announced through the website and mailing list.  The proceedings of LAM TWG are considered confidential and are restricted to only members of the group.  Technical decisions and findings are produced and reviewed by experts and collaborators prior to being released to the general public.  For more information or to apply to an iED TWG please visit here.