Virtual worlds are online, three-dimensional environments that can be accessed over the Internet. Each user is represented by an avatar, a type of animated figure whose movement and behavior are controlled remotely, determining the on-screen view that is presented to other users. While the technology is based on that of online video games, some worlds are not games, but in many ways replicas of the real world, but with additional features. The best known example is Second Life. Other worlds are created for specific purposes, such as academic and business collaborations, with Qwaq being a prime example.

Presenters Piet Hut and Karen Sobel Lojeski will give a brief introduction to their work in virtual worlds, especially in WoK Forums, a Qwaq-based organization focused on Ways of Knowing, seeking to bridge approaches in science and in contemplative studies. The program will include a quick tour of Second Life, and an actual session in Qwaq's WoK Forums, with Karen serving as speaker for a weekly seminar that is held there.

Piet Hut is Professor at the Institute for Advanced Study, where he heads the Program of Interdisciplinary Studies. An astrophysicist with an interest in the history of the Universe and computational science, he is the author of many books and articles that explore these areas.

Karen Sobel Lojeski is Chief Executive Officer of Virtual Distance International and Research Director for the Institute for Innovation and Information Productivity. Karen established Virtual Distance International to help companies with innovation, leadership, and virtual workforce management. Virtual Distance International provides advisory, training, and consulting services to organizations around the world. Karen is also a columnist and contributing editor for CIOInsight Magazine, where she writes on the subject of management and leadership in the changing world of work in the Digital Age. Her groundbreaking work in innovation and productivity has been featured in a number of major business publications including Business Week, The New York Times, and Entrepreneur Magazine.