The New Era of Storytelling Begins, iStream Transforms Journalism at the University of Nicosia
In a digital age where information multiplies and audiences become increasingly disengaged, journalism faces a critical challenge: transforming understanding into lived experience. Immersive journalism, using virtual (VR), augmented and mixed reality technologies, emerges as a powerful and timely solution.
The European iStream project, funded by the Erasmus+ programme (KA220-HED), focuses precisely on this transition, transforming media and communication education and equipping future journalists for the rapidly evolving digital landscape.
The University of Nicosia participates actively as a partner in iStream through the work of the following academic team:
- Prof. Nicholas Nicoli, Professor of Communication and Associate Head of the Department of Communications
- Prof. Soulla Louca, Director of the Institute For the Future
- Ms. Popi Aristidou, Lecturer in Multimedia, Department of Design and Multimedia
- Dr. Chris Christou, Associate Professor of Digital Media and Interactive Technologies, Department of Design and Multimedia
What is Immersive Journalism?
“It is not simply about advanced technology or high-end equipment, but about constructing a narrative environment where the audience enters into the event”, says Prof. Nicholas Nicoli. “Immersion allows us to foster empathy and bring users to the heart of the story, whether that story unfolds inside a refugee centre or within the consequences of climate change.”
Dr. Chris Christou highlights the experiential dimension:
“Immersive journalism allows us to design media that place the audience inside complex realities. When users feel presence rather than simply observe content, they remember, reflect and respond differently.”
Prof. Soulla Louca connects immersive journalism to the broader digital transformation:
“Digital environments shape perceptions and policy. Journalists must learn to operate within them, otherwise they risk obsolescence.”
Ms. Popi Aristidou adds that traditional formats often struggle to convey the complexity of today’s major issues: “Immersive approaches bring audiences into the story, not just in front of it.”
Dr. Christou also emphasises responsibility and ethics: “Immersive experiences are powerful. With that power comes the duty to ensure accuracy, transparency and ethical design. Immersion should enlighten, not manipulate.”
Why Do We Need University-Level Programmes?
According to Prof. Nicholas Nicoli: “There is a significant skills gap in the market, from handling VR capture and editing workflows to understanding the ethical and psychological implications of immersion.”
Prof. Louca notes that short workshops or seminars are insufficient: “We need a comprehensive framework, such as the DigComp and EQF-aligned structure we are developing through iStream.”
Ms. Aristidou adds that the programme is designed to serve students from diverse backgrounds, academic levels and disciplines.
Dr. Christou highlights its interdisciplinary importance: “Immersive storytelling sits at the crossroads of journalism, design, psychology and technology. Universities are the only environment equipped to prepare students across all these dimensions.”
iStream in Higher Education
The project has developed a competence framework for the immersive journalist, covering:
- Multimedia production and VR and AR
- Narrative design and audience psychology
- Ethics of immersive environments
- Analysis of emerging technologies
Prof. Nicoli emphasises that the framework is not merely theoretical: “We have created workshop guidelines, curricula and an international training programme that are ready for universities to adopt today.”
Ms. Aristidou describes the project’s Community of Practice, which connects academics, practitioners and students across Europe.
Prof. Louca adds that all educational resources are openly accessible, translated into multiple languages and available to small universities and organisations.
The next step involves pilot programmes at selected universities to test, refine and advance immersive journalism education.
Is the Future of Storytelling Already Here?
As Prof. Louca states: “Immersive journalism is not a trend, it is a transformation of storytelling. It requires responsible, structured and ethical education to be used effectively.”
Thanks to iStream, this education is already taking shape, preparing the next generation of journalists to lead within a dynamic, digital and increasingly immersive media landscape.
For more information and access to iStream resources, visit: https://www.istream-project.eu/
