Contexts

Having defined the SMC field in the previous chapter the next issue we want to address is the various contexts in which the field can be situated. Four of these may be identified. First, there is the research context; that is, the state and trends of related disciplines and what influence they might have on SMC. Secondly, current trends in higher education are of relevance because they will determine the context in which future SMC researchers are educated. Third, the industrial context has a big impact on the direction of SMC research, so an understanding of the industries that will most benefit from it, and of trends in the ICT sector generally, is vital. Finally, SMC research has an obvious link to culture and has, or might have, relevant social implications, so we need to view current cultural and social trends in relation to it.