Prof. Osvaldo Gervasi
Perugia University, Department of Mathematics and Computer Science, Italy
Speech Title: Impact of Virtual and Augmented Reality and Immersive Experiences for the Advancement of Knowledge
Abstract:
Virtual Reality (VR) and Augmented Reality (AR) are revolutionising the way we interact with information, bridging the gap between abstract concepts and experiential learning. By creating immersive environments that combine real-world contexts with digital augmentation, these technologies offer unparalleled opportunities to advance knowledge in fields as diverse as education, healthcare, engineering, and the arts.
This exploration delves into the profound impact of VR and AR on the acquisition and dissemination of knowledge. Immersive experiences enhance cognitive engagement, foster deeper understanding through simulation and interactivity, and enable complex data visualisation. Emerging VR/AR technology trends, their integration with artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML), and their role in democratising access to advanced learning tools will also be discussed.
Through case studies and research, the transformative potential of VR/AR to address real-world challenges and inspire innovation is highlighted. These immersive experiences are reshaping the knowledge landscape and empowering individuals to imagine and create the future.
Biography:
Osvaldo Gervasi, Associate Professor at the Department of Mathematics and Computer Science, Perugia University (Information Processing Systems) serves since 2019 as Deputy Director of the Dept of Mathematics and Computer Science, Perugia University. He coordinates the professional degree in computer science: “Programming and Management of Information Systems”, a new three-year degree course designed to facilitate entry into the world of work and narrow the gap between graduate preparation and the needs of the enterprises.
His research interests focus on Computational Science, High Performance Computing, Virtual and Augmented Reality and Artificial Intelligence and Web Programming.
He teaches on the following subject matters: “Computer Networks and Internet” at the professional degree in computer science, “Computer Network Architectures” + “Virtual Reality Systems” at the Bachelor degree in computer science and “High Performance Computing” at the Master degree in computer science, Department of Mathematics and Computer Science, University of Perugia, Italy.
He is the President of the not-for-profit organization “The International Community on Computational Science and Its Applications (ICCSA-ETS)”, which runs annually the International Conference on Computational Science and Its Applications (ICCSA, https://iccsa.org) since its foundation. The ICCSA proceedings are published on Springer LNCS.
Professor Gervasi has published more than 150 papers, book chapters and conference proceedings. He has also edited more than 100 proceeding volumes.
ACM Senior Member and IEEE Senior Member, Member of the Internet Society (ISOC), co-founder of the ISOC Italian Chapter.
Member of The Document Foundation (TDF), which delivers LibreOffice, since 2013. TDF Board Member (2016-2020 and 2024-2026).