Online Voice and Community
The social capital that shapes communities can be strengthened by technology. In fact, online communities, across cultures, have provided the space for disenfranchised and silenced voices – voices for literacy, for freedom, for politics, for support, for justice. The purposes vary, but the design, engagement, and outcome of successful online communities all share the attribute of valued voice. Using Kollack, Powazek and others, students will examine culturally specific online communities, analyzing text, voice, ethics, language, and structure. As well as studying, evaluating, and analyzing aspects of online voice, students will participate in online communities. The course will incorporate online communication as well as traditional writing processes. This course is repeatable for a maximum of 12 credits.