The exploitation of technology in the context of the cultural olympiad 2001-2004

Introduction

This paper takes as its point of departure the importance of staging a "Cultural Olympiad" in the context of the Olympic Games. A brief analysis of the objectives of Athens "Cultural Olympiad" is given as well as a comprehensive review of all information technology systems and telecommunications networks that are employed during the unfolding of the "Cultural Olympiad 2001-2004" program. In addition an extensive analysis is provided concerning the restrictions - difficulties that come up in the process of exploiting new communications technologies in the context of a cultural program, whose solely mission is to become a core element of the Olympic Games.

Methods

The basic research method that is exploited in order to reach to a conclusion concerning the pre-described theme is content analysis. The latter is applied on:
• the keystone elements of Athens "Cultural Olympiad" program
• the technological content of the program entitled "Cultural Olympiad 2001-2004"

Results

The presentation demonstrates that the principles, messages and thematic focus of contemporary "Cultural Olympiads" by definition are closely linked to modern digital technology. The "Cultural Olympiad 2001-2004", has endeavored to confront various restrictions - difficulties that come up in the process of exploiting new communications technologies in the context of C.O. The primary purpose of the "Cultural Olympiad 2001-2004" has been to develop the unlimited capabilities of digital means in order to:
• communicate and particularly to interact with the global citizen of Information Society
• diffuse extensively the C.O. messages and program
• promote, preserve and documentate hellenic cultural heritage

Discussion/Conclusion

Nevertheless it is essential to intensify the endeavor that commenced with the Athens "Cultural Olympiad" in relation to the exploitation of new capabilities that new communication technologies provide, so that C.O. messages and cultural goods to be addressed to more people.

References

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[2]. Coubertin Pierre de, Olympism: selected writings, Lausanne, International Olympic Committee, 2000
[3]. Beatriz Garcia Garcia (2002) ‘The concept of Olympic Cultural Programmes: Origins, Evolution and Projection’, Centre d’ Estudis Olimpics i de l’ Esport (UAB), International Chair in Olympism
[4]. Hellenic Culture Organization S.A. (2002) ‘Official website - Cultural Olympiad’, at http://www.hch.culture.gr (accessed: 30/8/2002)
[5]. Andreas Veglis & Andreas Filippopoulos, ‘Technology & Communication Strategy at "Athens - 2004" Olympic Games’, IEEE Global Communications Newsletter, August 2002.
[6]. Hellenic Ministry of Culture (2002) ‘Official website’, at http://www.culture.gr (accessed: 6/9/2002)
[7]. Norman Sally Jane ‘Culture and the New Media Technologies’ at: http://www.unesco-sweden.org/Conference/Papers/ Paper9.htm (accessed: 29/8/2001)