Empirical evidence for information overload in mass interaction

Abstract

'Virtual publics' are computer-mediated discourse spaces created by using various technologies including email, the USENET, web based bulletin boards, IRC, MUDS, etc. [3]. This paper outlines ongoing field research into the stress zones or boundaries to interactive virtual public discourse produced by information overload. It describes initial findings, based on an examination of 2.65 million USENET messages, which suggest that information overload impacts on discourse structure. Findings include a higher proportional user turnover, and shorter messages in relation to group size. The research in progress addresses issues associated with group level usability of communication technologies.

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