Caribbean Communication: Social Mediation Through the Caribbean ICT Virtual Community (CIVIC)

Abstract

This chapter explores computer-mediated communications (CMC) and outlines the typology of the Caribbean ICT Virtual Community known as "CIVIC" and how this community utilizes this medium as a vehicle to provide interpersonal and informational interactions, which created social spaces to address social issues. The first section provides an overview of the macroeconomic situation of the Caribbean region. Then computer-mediated communication and virtual communities' concepts are introduced. Next, the conceptual framework of virtual communities is developed, drawing on Netnography as a research tool and data analysis method. The final section presents the implications of using the Caribbean ICT Virtual Community as a virtual space where social issues can be discussed and addressed. Despite the broadly known representations perpetuated by the popular views of the Caribbean as solely a tourism destination, social problems such as crime, poor economies, subpar educational systems, and the lack R. Caruth ()