Abstract
Emerging technologies, particularly extended reality (XR), virtual reality (VR), and augmented reality (AR), are reshaping the landscape of news media organizations, transforming how information is disseminated and consumed. This dissertation investigates how these immersive technologies are integrated into journalistic practices, their influence on audience engagement, and the shifting dynamics within newsrooms adapting to these advancements. Generation Z, with a high affinity for digital environments, is central to this study, representing a pivotal demographic that values immersive and interactive news experiences. The research also delves into the metaverse and digital twin concepts, examining how they foster user-centered storytelling and redefine news consumption. Using a mixed-methods approach, this study combines quantitative surveys measuring audience perceptions with qualitative focus groups, interviews, and simulations to provide an in-depth analysis of immersive journalism’s role in modern media. Key research findings underscore how XR technologies facilitate more dynamic, emotionally engaging interactions, creating a ‘story-living’ experience that extends beyond traditional storytelling. This dissertation further addresses the technical, ethical, and cultural challenges associated with immersive journalism and highlights Generation Z’s influence on the evolving communication landscape. By understanding these dynamics, this study provides insights for media organizations seeking to enhance engagement, transparency, and ethical responsibility in immersive journalism practices. The findings underscore the necessity for adaptive strategies in newsrooms to effectively leverage XR media, ensuring their role in an increasingly digitized society.
Presenters
Ioanna Georgia EskiadiResearcher - Project Manager, Journalism and Mass Communications, Peace Journalism Laboratory, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, Greece, Greece
Details
Presentation Type
Paper Presentation in a Themed Session
Theme
KEYWORDS
Emerging Technologies, Immersive Journalism, Extended Reality
