Citizens' evaluation of an online argument visualisation platform for eparticipation

Abstract

Argument visualisation (AV) tools facilitate structured debates utilising elements such as issues, positions and arguments. In this way, AV tools seem promising for improving eParticipation e.g. by avoiding repetition and enhancing clarity in debates. In this paper we present and discuss citizens' opinion on utilising an AV platform for eParticipation, specifically for discussing the emerging topic of environment and climate change. Results have been interesting; most users found the platform and topic interesting and understandable stating that they would use the platform again in the future and recommend it to other people. However, negative feedback has also been received, mostly in relation to things that frustrated users (e.g. the logic behind AV) and suggestions for improvement. As our evaluation is based on a mature AV tool and focuses on general aspects of such tools, we believe that results may be applicable to other AV platforms as well. © 2012 IFIP International Federation for Information Processing.