** The virtual imperative: The perception, expectation, and reality of immersive technologies ** - York St. John University, London Campus - 2nd November 2023 - Day-long conference - More info: https://www.vr-ar.group Gutenberg’s press of the 1400s sparked what became known as the print revolution. His method for mass communication (the printed book) changed the world and remained unchallenged until the 1960s; when the emergence of computer technologies led to what was to be labelled the digital revolution. Leading up to both these technological breakthroughs there was a sense of something new ‘in the air’; a technological and social framework was in place for change. The term revolution (a sudden, radical, and complete change) is fitting in both cases as society had been primed for such change; the benefits were clear and technological change was rapidly adopted around the globe. In our own time, VR and AR technologies are well established – though there is a sense that their application, or worth, has still to be defined. Such developments represent a social and cultural imperative; evidenced by the contemporary discourse around the Metaverse, with issues of ownership, control, and positioning in the marketplace. This day-long conference brings together leading figures from industry and academia, aiming to shed light on current thinking, explore cutting-edge VR/AR applications, and (through an understanding of historical technological precedents) attempt to contextualise and rationalise our virtual future. ** Call for academic speakers ** The York Virtual and Augmented Reality Research Group is requesting proposals for 20 minute presentations around emerging technologies related to VR/AR practices. This can include: - Areas relating to games and graphic design, film, animation, arts-based practices, and any other creative fields. - New approaches and experimental applications in the creative sectors. - Contemporary research topics related to social, economic, historic, and political implications and forces. - Pedagogical approaches toward using immersive technologies to enhance educational / training experiences. All submissions should include 1. topic title, 2. bio (100 words), and 3. abstract (200 words), using the form below. Deadline for proposals: Friday 11th August 2023, by 5pm. For more information and how to submit see: https://www.vr-ar.group