Community Informatics: Shaping Computer-Mediated Social Networks

Description

Community groups, social support networks, voluntary agencies and government organizations are all actively exploring the potential of the new information and communication technologies to bring about democratic development and renewal. A rich variety of social experiments in what has become known as Community Informatics is now beginning to provide useful research findings and exciting examples of innovative applications. This book sets down some of the defining features of a Community Informatics approach and some of the common themes which are emerging. In particular it considers the following issues: sustainability; employment; community management; public service provision; partnerships of stakeholders; local learning; and social support and networks. This edited collection brings together leading exponents of Community Informatics from around the world and critically evaluates their experiences.

'Provides an important and non-technical introduction to the issues of building greater social cohesion through the use of ICT ... the readings form an important and accessible collection of material that moves debate on from simplistic one-dimensional notions.' - Housing Studies