Truth and Consequences Online

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Relational honesty is an area that has fascinated people for centuries. We spend a substantial amount of energy and time within any relationship exploring the degree of honesty present within the interactions of that relationship. If dishonesty is discovered, there are generally substantial consequences for the partner who has engaged in dishonest behaviors or communication. How does this translate to online relationships and communication? This exercise will look at expectations of truth in online interactions and consider the consequences of violations of these expectations. Your group will be considering the nature of truth online and how it relates to face-to-face interactions.

Option A

Each group member should choose an IRC Channel or chat room to observe. In your observations, record the types of topics being discussed and how these topics are discussed. Note any specific references to truthfulness or trustworthiness made within the conversations observed. Once all observations are completed, discuss the interactions observed. What seemed to be the expectations for truthfulness? What were the consequences for being untruthful? Discuss what differences exist between online and face-to-face interactions in terms of expectations of truthfulness and potential consequences of untruthfulness.

Option B

Each group member should sign onto the IRC Channel or chat room of their choice and participate in the conversation. Once all interactions are completed, discuss them in terms of what seemed to be the expectations for truthfulness? What were the consequences for being untruthful (if any)? Did you feel there were different expectations depending upon the type of channel or room you were in?

Discuss what differences exist between online and face-to-face interactions in terms of expectations of truthfulness and potential consequences of untruthfulness as a participant.

From: http://occ.awlonline.com/bookbind/pubbooks/devitohc_awl/chapter98/deluxe.html