Document Type

Article

Publication Date

2008

Publication Title

American Communication Journal

Additional Publication URL

http://www.ac-journal.org/

Abstract

This paper discusses the use of online discussion forums in various “e-democratic” practices in light of the lessons learned from the field of education. Informed by a conceptual framework drawn from the role of public sphere in electronic democracy and the ideal learning conditions of a computer-mediated communication environment, the author analyzed two discussion forums maintained by a government and a civil society group. Results suggest that, in both cases, online discussion forums only reflect a few elements of effective online learning and therefore, have yet to reach their full potentials. Implications for future research are discussed.

Rights

The ACJ is an academic journal. As such, it is dedicated to the open exchange of information. For this reason, ACJ is freely available to individuals and institutions. Copies of this journal or articles in this journal may be distributed for research or educational purposes free of charge and without permission. However, commercial use of the ACJ website or the articles contained herein is expressly prohibited without the written consent of the editor.

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