Virtual Institutions from the Perspectives of a Geographer and Biologist

Virtual Institutions from the Perspectives of a Geographer and Biologist

People tend to think of geography at any given time as little more than static points, lines, and areas on a map. Geography involves understanding the spatial processes that define the map, including the flow and flux of people and ideas against the backdrop of space and time.  The concept of diffusion helps to inform the evolution of a map’s human geography.

Thoughts on biology, in light of evolutionary theory, would tend to run opposite as organisms in constant flux. However, within biology, species tend to adapt to a particular place over long spans of time to be able to adapt specifically and branch out from ancestors.  The concept of diffusion also guides the biologist’s understanding of the formation of new species.

We propose to use our disciplinary understandings of diffusion to demonstrate how conceptual collaboration is possible within Science Circle.   Our goal is to contextualize and to validate groups like the Science Circle in today’s 3-D online settings and globalizing world through the use of a simple concept like diffusion; and, in so doing, to contemplate the meaning of a physical-world concept such as diffusion to a virtual-world setting. We build on this goal by asking broader questions like what are the advantages of a virtual-world Science Circle over a similar actual-world organization? How is Science Circle a model for the future?   We tackle these questions as the Science Circle achieves its 15th year of illuminating minds (not facelights) within Second Life.  And, we will guide an open-ended discussion in which everyone may participate.

A joint presentation & discussion by Stephen L. Gasior, Ph.D. and Merrill Johnson, Ph.D.