Public Spaces on the Information Highway: the Role of Community Networks

This thesis explores the phenomenon of community networking in Canada, particularly as it impacts the issue of universal access to emerging broadband networks. The regulatory context of community networking is examined, and recent government efforts reviewed and critiqued. Through two case studies, an analysis of three potential benefits arising from community networking is developed. These three benefits are: increased participation in the democratic system, increased access to education, and community development. Several models for providing universal access, through community networks, are presented