ABSTRACT
Computer-mediated communication (CMC) is a field that studies the use of computers and related technologies as a means of facilitating human communication. With the decrease in cost of computer-based systems, use as a communication and collaboration medium has increased dramatically. Applications have been developed for businesses, educational institutions, and governmental agencies to meet the demand of emerging environments, and to enhance personal use of social networks. Scholarly research in the area of CMC has mirrored this growth. This entry first provides a description of CMCs, including areas in which computers have been used to facilitate collaboration, automation, and management. The second section categorizes both synchronous and asynchronous applications of CMC conferencing and communication technology by breaking applications down between task-specific and non-task specific areas of application within interpersonal, group, and mass communication venues. The remainder of this entry explores academic research in the area of CMC.
