RMIT builds on Twitter, Google Maps, geolocation to entice online poets

The Royal Melbourne Institute of Technology (RMIT) is using social media and geolocation to entice aspiring writers to use its mobile website.

Launched last year, Poetry 4 U is designed to engage Tweeters and fans of short verse by seeking submissions of poetry about the city of Melbourne in 140 characters or less.

Submissions are then pinned onto a Google maps image of Melbourne’s CBD, with smartphone users able to access these via their mobile device.

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Senior lecturer from RMIT’s school of media, Dr. Marsha Berry, said the project builds on the popularity of Twitter while creating an engaging experience through geolocation.

“Twitter is fast gaining momentum as a medium for poetry,” Berry said.

“Pinning poems to place is a new way of reaching audiences, creating a poetic and interactive experience for visitors to the city.”

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