Reading: Communicating in virtual communities

Note: Online Annotated Bibliography due Oct 25

We explore the concept of the virtual community as a prominent metaphor in both people's experiences with the Internet and within the study of computer-mediated communication. Following an examination of some historical precedents for virtual communities, we discuss four features of these communities - a minimum level of interactivity, a variety of communicators, common public space, and a minimum level of sustained membership. We conclude with an analysis of recent objections to the concept of the virtual community.

Off-campus webpages

The Netizens and Community Networks - Michael F. Hauben - "Two general uses of the term Netizen have developed. The first is a broad usage to refer to anyone who uses the Net, for whatever purpose. Thus, the term Netizen has been prefixed in some uses with the adjectives good or bad. The second usage is closer to my understanding. This definition is used to describe people who care about Usenet and the bigger Net and work towards building the cooperative and collective nature which benefits the larger world."

Virtual Communities, Virtual Settlements and Cyber-Archaeology - Quentin Jones - "This paper provides such a perspective by outlining in theoretical terms how a cyber-archaeology of virtual communities can be conducted. In archaeology, researchers focus on cultural artifacts. A similar focus on the cultural artifacts of virtual communities should be a focus for CMC researchers as these artifacts can provide an integrative framework for a community's life, be it virtual or real."

Note: These pages exist outside of San Jose State University servers and their content is not endorsed by the page maintainer or any other university entity. These pages have been selected because they may provide some guidance or insight into the issues discussed in class. Because one can never step into the same electronic river twice, the pages may or may not be available when you request them. If you have any questions or suggestions, please email Dr. Andrew Wood.