Abstract
The present article discusses analytical typologies for communications research in the area of computer media. A critical position is taken to the general trend of communication science research on computer media, which tends to focus on technological form and theoretical distinctions stemming from the study of mass communication. An alternative description of computer media is developed which focuses on a) the computer's inherent semiotic nature and their capacities for symbol manipulation and b) the responsive context of reception characteristic of computer media. Four analytic typologies for research treating computer media are reviewed. A new typology which responds to the Peircean category of representation is introduced. This typology evaluates 'representational character' - differentiating common computer media by content scope, and temporal and spatial qualities.
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