The Past, Present and Future of Human Communication and Technology Research

During our business meeting last year, we discussed several ideas about how to increase the prominence of our division among the membership of NCA. One idea was to come up with some keynote panel that would draw some attention to our division and our discipline. Xia and I are pleased to present to you the results of that effort starting with today’s newsletter and ending with what is sure to be a memorable and exciting panel at NCA.

Along with the regular content of today’s newsletter, you will find 10 position statements (attached) from 10 top scholars in the field who address several issues of importance and areas for future research vital to the future of the field. From the calls for more theory building to understanding the current trends, technologies, and social issues, each scholar has provided what we believe is an important step towards a healthy discussion of the state of the human and communication technology discipline.

Rather than wait for the NCA panel to roll around on November 16th, we will start the discussion online through a group discussion site setup through Google. Users will be able to access it via the HCTD website or through a search of Google Groups. We encourage all of our division members and NCA members in general to join the discussion online and then during our panel session in Chicago. We hope this will be an exciting opportunity for exploration of ideas and thought provoking discussions.

Scott C. D’Urso and Yun Xia
HCTD Co-Chairs

Our Panelists