Document Type
Article
Abstract
This article proposes a new conflict resolution approach called "immersive dispute resolution" (IDR) through the use of existing communication and graphical technology in 3-D virtual worlds as well as the collaborative and strategic thinking skills virtual world participants acquire in digital experiences. Specifically, this article begins by discussing research on learning in virtual worlds, with an emphasis on key collaborative conflict resolution skills accumulated through play in virtual environments. Next, this article discusses current dispute resolution processes available in certain 3-D worlds which fail to leverage the technology or collaborative skills available in these environments, and finishes with a call for established dispute resolution for professional and organizational providers to facilitate IDR processes which use existing technology and collaborative skills to resolve owner-participant conflicts.
The article concludes that the skills and technology for IDR has already been laid in 3-D immersive games and social networking sites, and calls for forward-thinking dispute resolution providers and professionals to recognize the natural connections between those skills and technology and their services. By bringing together 3-D immersive technologies, facilitative dispute resolution skills, and proper support and planning from conflict resolution professionals, immersive dispute resolution has the ability to become the next major evolution of dispute resolution.
Recommended Citation
Lucille M. Ponte,
Leveling Up to Immersive Dispute Resolution (IDR) In 3-D Virtual Worlds: Learning and Employing Key IDR Skills to Resolve In-World Developer-Participant Conflicts,
34 U. Ark. Little Rock L. Rev. 713
(2012).
Available at: https://lawrepository.ualr.edu/lawreview/vol34/iss4/4