Facilitating Virtual Conferences: Reflections and Lessons Learned in Two Global Communities

Abstract

This commentary is intended to share the authors' experiences in organizing and running two conferences fully online due to COVID-19 pandemic restrictions. We elicit key observations from these experiences and elaborate upon salient properties of the virtual mode of delivery in comparison to in-person events. We use a novel theoretical framework that combines principles of Dialogue and communication affordances of Virtual Reality to structure our discussion and align it with principles of effective online communication. We highlight the challenges and the benefits of virtual conferencing, also considering these prospects in the context of possible hybrid solutions that must adapt to the fast-changing socio-Technical reality of our global communities.