The something old was the form of participatory government used in New England towns in the colonial era. The something new was combining the new technologies of television, telephone and computer to bring citizens together electronically in their own homes. The aim is to scope opinions and identify areas of possible consensus or conflict. Beyond this basic model there are several interesting design and programming options for ETMs. An ETM can either be held at one site or at several sites simultaneously linked by microwave, satellite or simply telephones.
Software exists to provide immediate feedback and electronic projection of the results.
Learning circles, discussion groups and focus groups on the Internet can be used to contribute to the setting of ETM agendas. Back To Top Application of Contemporary Telecommunications Technologies to Constituent Assemblies Contemporary telecommunications technologies could be used in a number of ways to improve the assembly process. I begin with the most incremental and end with the most transformational. Televize the assembly sessions. Aids education of public on issues.