Virtual Connections and Virtual Futures: A Commentary on Attending RDAP2020 Remotely and a Look to the Future of Online Conferences

Abstract

This commentary describes the experience of attending RDAP 2020 remotely after the author’s trip cancellation due to COVID-19 travel restrictions. The author describes the highs and lows of the remote viewing experience, and the potential future landscape of virtual conferences and remote attendance. Maintaining networking and casual conversation during a virtual conference is an area that needs improvement but has potential. Takeaways from several conference sessions, including the keynote speaker, are also included along with discussion of how the author learned valuable information or could apply the topics to her own work.