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Defining Interactivity

A Qualitative Identification of Key Dimensions

Boston University

SALLY J. McMILLAN

University of Tennessee

The literature on interactivity includes many assumptions and some definitions but few tools for operationalizing the concept of interactivity in computer-mediated environments. This article takes an early step in filling that gap. In-depth interviews with 10 individuals who work and teach in the field of interactive communication led to a conceptual definition of interactivity based on six dimensions: direction of communication, time flexibility, sense of place, level of control, responsiveness, and perceived purpose of communication. Suggestions are made for applying these dimensions to multiple forms of computer-mediated communication. Future research should empirically test the existence and application of these dimensions.

Key Words: computer-mediated communication • interactivity

New Media & Society, Vol. 2, No. 2, 157-179 (2000)
DOI: 10.1177/14614440022225751


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