Out from the Edges: Multi-site Videoconferencing as a Public Sphere in First Nations

Abstract

This report uses video analysis and semi-structured interviews to describe a case of community use of multi-site videoconferencing. The event in 2007 connected a number of First Nation communities across Canada for simultaneous audio-visual exchange. The meeting was hosted by K-Net Services in Ontario. The research project VideoCom organized the event to study the feasibility of public meetings through videoconferencing and to document an example of community uses of the technology.

Our report suggests videoconferencing creates a public sphere in these First Nations communities. K-Net Services works to develop their videoconferencing infrastructure to better support this public space. The public sphere is way of thinking about how media practices have a political effect and how they contribute to the well-being of the community. The case meeting shows a potential new opportunity to further integrate videoconferencing into community development.