The technology behind the metaverse has its origins in the darkest days of the Cold War. This ‘Military metaverse’ gave birth to the Internet, transforming warfare - and, a generation later, online gaming.

Featuring Michael Zyda.

JCR Licklider – “Lick” to his friends and colleagues – is little-known but absolutely an essential figure in the development of modern computing.Ivan Sutherland is probably the most influential computer scientist, full stop.Here’s a video of Ivan Sutherland giving a demo of ‘Sketchpad’ the first interactive computer drawing program.Bob Taylor is largely unknown outside the small community of individuals involved with the early Internet – but his work is profoundly influential.Here’s an interview with Bob Taylor, talking about the origins of the InternetHere’s an excellent documentary on the recreation of the “Battle of 73 Easting” – the first tank battle captured in real-time, then simulated endlessly using SIMNET.

1968: When the World Began, 3D graphics, A Brief History of the Metaverse, Bob Taylor, DARPA, Internet, IPTO, Ivan Sutherland, JCR Licklider, metaverse, Mike Zyda, military, SIMNET, simulation, SKETCHPAD, VR

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This podcast is sponsored by the Digital Skills Organisation.

The DSO is championing an employer-led, skills-based approach to digital literacy. Our offering is designed to support future-proofing the country, growing jobs, supporting our economic growth and ensuring that Australia remains a global leader in digital. If we are to equip our workforce with the skills to meet a rapidly changing, technological future, we need a new approach. We’re working in collaboration with employers, trainers and employees. Their involvement is vital. We believe it’s a better way to create consistent journey pathways and build relevant digital skills. We define the problem this way - digital skills training must:

Create value both internally and externally.Improve customer experience.Build operational capabilities.

To deliver on these objectives we need to strengthen Australia’s digital workforce. It’s that simple.

DSO - Digitally Upskilling Australia To find out more, visit the DSO website: https://digitalskillsorg.com.au

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