Virtual Reality as an Educational Tool (A Reportage Sketch)

I went to a virtual reality event held at the Oakland Museum garden featuring not only a virtual reality narrative but also live music, and speakers. I had never worn that type of headset before and was pretty flabbergasted at what I saw and felt. It truly is a 3-d experience!

At the event you could also engage with avatars that were programmed with AI (artificial intelligence.) The avatars were students in a classroom setting. They were having a disagreement and it was your job to facilitate a discussion. Simply amazing. I definitely can see this being of value in an educational setting but I still find it kind of spooky too. --Vivian Aldridge

Cartagena’s protection against pirates

This is a small part of Cartagena’s city wall.

In the 17th century Cartagena was in Spanish hands. Royalty decided to build a fortress with a wall around the city to protect it from pirates. It should take more than 208 (!) years to finish the 11km wall.  In 1756, while in Madrid, Charles III of Spain took his spyglass and allegedly said: ” This is outrageous! For this prize those castles should be seen from here!”

They are nice walls, though.

Oliver, your visual flaneur