Computers in society
“There is an emerging need for all sectors of society to find ways to optimize the opportunities which information and communications technologies present. Research and development work in Information Systems and information technology has accepted a model of computing where the individual interacts directly with the computer and, through the computer and communication systems, with other individuals. Thus the objective of IT research and development has been to continuously enhance and extend the capabilities of individuals within the context of the corporations, organizations, and governments for which they work. However, IT also can be used to support communities in their efforts for social and economic development. Community informatics is a technology strategy or discipline which links economic and social development efforts at the community level with emerging opportunities in such areas as electronic commerce, community and civic networks and telecentres, electronic democracy and on-line participation, self-help and virtual health communities, advocacy, cultural enhancement, and others”.
While a number of studies have tried to focus on the negative impact of computer mediated communication, there are some very interesting studies on the positive side as well. Stafford, Kline, and Dimmick (1999), for example concluded that email is a primary mode for contact within family and friendships networks. The low cost, convenience of email has provided many users with an efficient mode of interaction with friends and families. Likewise a report by the “Pew Internet & American Life Project (2000), a survey data from 1,690 Internet users indicates that communication with family members and existing friends through email forms a significant portion of their internet use” (Knapp and Daly 544). Some groups claimed that it was easier to communicate with the family members via email, and it has improved their relationships. 8. Play: Communication systems and instant messaging may lead to people sitting longer in front of computers for amusement, which has something to do with territoriality (Lee and Varey 323). The phenomenon of computer mediated communication is still evolving and it remains to be seen what it will eventually lead to; may be increased isolation or virtual communities. The research presented highlights some very important aspects of computer mediated communication or CMC as some might refer to it. The use of CMC has been growing at an enormous pace since the beginning of the internet in the 90’s. While there are many who oppose the use of this mechanism and suggest increased isolation in communities, one cannot deny the fact that the ease and the convenience that comes along with CMC have clearly overcome the disadvantages. The most important reason for the popularity as indicated by the first two points in the research is the integrated environment that has come along with CMC. Despite the limitations as suggested by the third point people all over the world feel connected; this feeling of being a part of the community is bound to overcome any disadvantages that CMC may have and is going to continue to evolve in the long run. restricted to individuals or specific groups; hence Stamps research tends to provide a new dimension to the cultural effects of computer mediated communication. Experience in computer mediated communication affects mental health and social interactions in a positive manner The question of whether the use of internet damages mental health and social interactions has been at the center of research since the very inception of the internet itself. In Kraut et al.’s (1998) study of longitudinal adoption, an experiment was conducted by taking a sample of 93 families. “Kraut and his colleagues tracked these families, who previously did not have computer or internet use at home, over a period of 2 years, starting in 1995. The results of the study indicated that increased use of internet was associated with an increase in scores on self administered measure of general depression” (Knapp and Daly 543). Increased use of internet was also responsible for reduction in the amount of interaction with family members and close friends. Similarly in another study, Nie and Erbring conducted a survey of 4113 Internet users and found that the more time individuals spend online, the less time they spend with family members in face to face or telephone communication (Knapp a
Some topics in this essay:
Lee Varey,
Knapp Daly,
Communication Computer,
Information Systems,
Eastin Greg,
Bonsall Hence,
Corporate America,
Chesebro Bonsall,
Kline Dimmick,
Nie Erbring’s,
computer mediated,
mediated communication,
computer mediated communication,
lee varey,
lee varey 323,
varey 323,
knapp daly,
text based,
knapp daly 543,
daly 543,
communication system,
health social interactions,
health social,
mental health,
text based messaging,
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Approximate Word count = 2254
Approximate Pages = 9 (250 words per page double spaced)
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