Virtual academic conferences as learning spaces: Factors associated with the perceived value of purely virtual conferences

• DOI: 10.1111/jcal.12614
• Publication Date: 2021-11-03T10:42:20Z
• Authors: Nina Seidenberg; Maren Scheffel; Vitomir Kovanovic; Grace Lynch; Hendrik Drachsler
• Keywords: Value (mathematics); Social distance

Abstract Background The COVID‐19 outbreak came with an unprecedented opportunity to investigate how the new reality of social distancing and limited international travel will affect organization academic conferences. Objectives Drawing on conceptualization conferences as professional learning spaces, in this study, we examine factors associated perceived value purely virtual such perceptions differ between participants from different research fields. aim was gain knowledge about that should be considered when designing a conference. Methods Survey data three were collected ( N = 311). Kendall's rank correlation χ 2 ‐analyses performed. Results Conclusion show satisfaction interaction, extent which presentations met participants' topics interest importance getting overview topic related rating. Researchers fields significantly their opinion most appropriate conference format regarding topic. For some researchers, participation might valuable alternative attending person. study serves first attempt understand for target groups serve event. Further is needed.