Metaverse, accesibility and journalism: an scoping review of research literature
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Abstract
Introduction: In a context of rapid technological change, this study explores academic research on the metaverse in journalism, with a focus on accessibility to promote inclusion. Methodology: Using a scoping review based on the PRISMA protocol, 16 open-access articles (2022–2024) from Web of Science and Scopus were analysed. Five main research themes emerged: media innovation, immersive journalism and technology, immersive journalism and gender, journalism and power, and other approaches. Results: Despite the innovative potential of these environments, the review reveals limited attention to digital inclusion in academic literature. A conceptual framework is proposed, integrating technical, symbolic, and organizational dimensions to guide the creation of accessible and ethically responsible journalistic content. Discussion: There is consensus on the urgent need to integrate accessibility as a structural axis in the design of immersive journalistic experiences in the metaverse. Conclusions: The study concludes that creating inclusive immersive journalism requires structural changes in media, integration of specialized roles, and active involvement of diverse groups from the design stage.
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