Status
Available
Call number
Collection
Publication
A Final Project Submitted in Partial Fulfillment of the Requirements for the Master’s Degree in Conflict Facilitation and Organizational Change, Process Work Institute, Portland, OR, June 2015
Local notes
http://www.processwork.org/files/Finalprojects/Bulkin_A_June_2015.pdf
Abstract
This paper examines online interactions from a Process-oriented standpoint with the goal of informing a design of online communication systems for social action, group decision-making, organizing and community-building. Several patterns of online behavior are identified, such as online disinhibition, effects of anonymity, phantom emotions, as well as frequent relationship dynamics such as those related to trust- building. These patterns are examined from a Process-oriented standpoint. Several conclusions are made:
1.Because online text-based media is mostly devoid of non-verbal signals, our experience of communicating digitally is an altered state of consciousness in which we mostly “dream up” our counterparts;
2.Online communication is naturally conducive of role-play which is a source of creativity, yet makes practical matters difficult.
3.Computer-based communication has unique rank and power dynamics, in that it favors those with technical skills and expertise.
Finally, some existing online communication systems are examined as case-studies. Suggestions are made towards possible ways to improve the quality of online experience.
Abstract
This paper examines online interactions from a Process-oriented standpoint with the goal of informing a design of online communication systems for social action, group decision-making, organizing and community-building. Several patterns of online behavior are identified, such as online disinhibition, effects of anonymity, phantom emotions, as well as frequent relationship dynamics such as those related to trust- building. These patterns are examined from a Process-oriented standpoint. Several conclusions are made:
1.Because online text-based media is mostly devoid of non-verbal signals, our experience of communicating digitally is an altered state of consciousness in which we mostly “dream up” our counterparts;
2.Online communication is naturally conducive of role-play which is a source of creativity, yet makes practical matters difficult.
3.Computer-based communication has unique rank and power dynamics, in that it favors those with technical skills and expertise.
Finally, some existing online communication systems are examined as case-studies. Suggestions are made towards possible ways to improve the quality of online experience.