| Abstract | Video communication conducted online — online videos, video calls, and videoconferencing — is quickly becoming a fixture in the everyday lives of many Canadians. We conducted a case study of residents of a small Canadian city, exploring their use of video communication to maintain social relationships. Our study indicates high levels of acceptance for communicating using video with others at a geographical distance, especially where there is a cost savings, a close personal relationship between participants, and a need to “show” objects or expressions. Concern about privacy restrains more frequent use. The discussion considers these findings in the context of public sphere theory and the potential for online video communications to be a special kind of place for people to meet and socialize with others. |
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