Document Type
Book Chapter
Date
1-1-2007
Keywords
information and library science
Disciplines
Library and Information Science | Organizational Communication | Other Social and Behavioral Sciences | Science and Technology Studies | Social Psychology and Interaction | Sociology of Culture
Description/Abstract
Virtual interactions are normally assumed to be separate and distinct from the “real world,” yet they are also situated within material reality. In this paper I propose that a situated approach to understanding virtuality can be developed through drawing from Goffman’s Frame Analysis (1974/1986). I explain how Goffman’s terminology and concepts afford a way of integrating the study of virtual interaction with the study of social interaction more generally. His frame analysis approach offers constructs useful for distinguishing virtual worlds from each other and from real worlds in a way that is consonant with perspectives on human-computer interaction. His language can help to account for the phenomenon of immersion in virtual worlds; and it is well suited for understanding co-present and mediated social interaction at the same time. I conclude by discussing some limitations of this approach and suggesting directions for further research.
Recommended Citation
Brooks, JoAnn, "Understanding Virtuality: Contributions from Goffman’s "Frame Analysis"" (2007). School of Information Studies - Faculty Scholarship. 87.
https://surface.syr.edu/istpub/87
Accessible PDF version
Creative Commons License
This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 3.0 License.
Included in
Library and Information Science Commons, Organizational Communication Commons, Other Social and Behavioral Sciences Commons, Science and Technology Studies Commons, Social Psychology and Interaction Commons, Sociology of Culture Commons
