ABSTRACT
Around the world, citizens in local communities are utilising ICTs to underpin the creation of a participatory and democratic vision of the network society. Embedded in the richness and diversity of community practice, a vision of a 'civil network society' is emerging. A society where ICTs are harnessed as tools to improve the quality of life and reflect the diversity of social networks; where people are viewed as citizens, not just as consumers, and where heterogeneity is perceived as a strength rather than a weakness.
Community Practice in the Network Society looks at the broad context in which this is happening, presents case studies of local projects from around the world, and discusses community ICT research methodologies. Not only does it highlight the symbiotic relationship between community ICT practice and research, but it also provides evidence supporting the case for the development of more inclusive and participatory pathways to the network society.
TABLE OF CONTENTS
part |2 pages
PART I The network society: issues and exigencies
chapter 3|16 pages
Cybersobriety
chapter 4|14 pages
Welcome to 1927
part |2 pages
Part II Snapshots of community practice
chapter 7|15 pages
Cybercafés and national elites
chapter 8|13 pages
“Informationalizing” El Salvador
chapter 9|17 pages
Social cyberpower in the everyday life of an African American community
part |2 pages
Part III An emerging community technology research agenda