Phatics and the design of community

ABSTRACT

Proposed thesis research uses Twitter-a young channel for phatics communication-as a catalyst to promote community awareness and strengthen connections between members. This paper examines the phatic function, or messages about the communication channel, and its growing interest in HCI research. Examples of projects are described in the context of better understanding the role phatics play in community development.

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INDEX TERMS

Primary Classification:
  H. Information Systems
  H.m MISCELLANEOUS

Additional Classification:
  H. Information Systems
  H.m MISCELLANEOUS

General Terms:
Design, Theory

Keywords:
ambient information, communication, community, design, phatic function, twitter, visualization