CITATION AND COPYRIGHT INFORMATION:
Cite as: Schaefer, D. J., & Dervin, B. (2003, May). The constitution and distortion of electronic public spheres: A conceptual and empirical rethinking of online communication outcomes as verbing micro-practices. Paper presented at the meeting of the International Communication Association, San Diego, CA.
© David J. Schaefer & Brenda Dervin (2003).

ABSTRACT:
We argue that usual approaches to studying communication in online public spheres is limited and prevents us from pinpointing how communication behaviors either inhibit or facilitate dialogue. We question the dominant emphasis on consensus as a preferred outcome. In an empirical study [informed in part by Sense-Making Methodology for both data collection and research design], we analyze 1,360 postings from three pedagogical discussions devoted to issues of race and popular/elite culture. Our analysis focuses not on outcomes but on verbing micro-practices—dynamic communicative actions through which participants make and unmake public spheres. We have two guiding research questions: (1) How do consensusing and dissensusing when conceptualized as communicative practices—verbings—relate to other practices? (2) What are the implications of these relationships for the quality of dialogue among participants holding diverse perspectives? Our boundary-bridging, quantitative-qualitative analysis uncovered previously hidden patterns in communicating behaviors, suggesting that an emphasis on consensusing and dissensusing may inhibit communication processes necessary for effective public sphere dialogue.

TO OBTAIN FULL TEXT:
You may request access to the full text URL by completing this form. (This will open a new window.)

OTHER MATERIALS BY THESE AUTHORS ON THIS WEB SITE:
For Schaefer,
See: http://communication.sbs.ohio-state.edu/sense-making/AAauthors/authorlistschaefer.html.
For Dervin,
See:  http://communication.sbs.ohio-state.edu/sense-making/AAauthors/authorlistdervin.html.