Overview

Designers, implementers, and users of computer network applications are all deeply involved in the processes of social and cultural change, whether or not they consciously and actively choose to consider these processes. Issues such as community and privacy, dependence and individualism are no longer simply the province of philosophers and social scientists; they are tightly interwoven in the design and use of network applications. Virtual Individuals, Virtual Groups explores the social dimensions of the powerful computing applications that are shaping our culture. It addresses design and theoretical issues relating to groupware and other applications of computer networks. It considers computer network applications in terms of the notions of genre and narrative, in a framework that is broadly applicable to the development of a wide range of computing and communication systems, such as virtual reality and multimedia.

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9780511574986

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'This book is for serious reading and study. It is very readable and brilliantly thought through. The publication makes a huge body of work accessible to those of us who have time for only one book on the subject.' Ian Alexander, Computing

'This book is for serious reading and study. It is very readable and brilliantly thought through. The publication makes a huge body of work accessible to those of us who have time for only one book on the subject.' Ian Alexander, Computing This is a book for serious reading and study. It is very readable and brilliantly thought through. I am lost with admiration for anyone who can have read as deeply and as widely as the author. The publication makes a huge body of work accessible to those of us who have time for only one book on the subject. Computing This book is a serious and effective attempt tp bring together a complex scope of social, cultural, psychological, computing, and communication science theory. It will inform students, researchers, and professionals involved in the process of emerging technologies. Designers and managers of computer network applications will find this book invaluable, as will any professional engaged in the creation of new work or learning communities through the use of technology. Information Technology and Libraries The work is noteworthy in its sensitivity to relevant developments....a very important work... K.J. Gergen, Choice The book will help conceptualize the nature of various entities that make up these applications and will provide a theoretical basis for the same....Oravec should be commended for thoughtfully laying the groundwork for future research and discussion in this area of computer supported collaborative work applications. This is an excellent place to start. Gouthm M. Menon, PhD, Computers in Human Services Oravec's development of the genre-responsive design approach should be instructive and compelling for both designers and participants of CSCW applications. Journal of the American Society for Information Science

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