本研究結合傳播與社區兩方面的理論和實務，探討並釐清社區頻道的意義及內涵， 同時著重於系統業者如何經營社區頻道，以提供地方的資訊及活動，發揮草根性傳播的 功能。在瞭解目前社區頻道的運作現況方面，包括節目規劃、來源、內容等，以及運作 社區頻道所面臨的困難與問題。以文獻分析法探討國內外社區頻道的經營案例；以深度訪談及問卷調查、電話訪談法，理解當前臺灣地區有線電視系統業者社區頻道的經營現 況。目前臺灣地區社區頻道的運作基本上可區分為兩種類型：社區服務型與社區參與型。社區服務型業者純粹是轉播地方上的各種活動，或接受外界提供的節目帶播映。而社區 參與型業者除了轉播與託播之外，並自製社區性的各類節目，尤其以社區公共事務類為 最主要內容。部份社區參與型的業者更參與和舉辦社區的活動，並實施媒介教育。系統業者在經營社區頻道時，大多面臨經費、人力、節目品質等困難。業者對政府 主管單位的期望很大，包括在法令規定，經費補助與節目委製等各方面。

The purpose of this study is to research into public-access channels of cable television in Taiwan. Also, the practice of the cable television proprietors who manage and operate public-access channel to serve local subscribers with both general and specialized news around the community is comprehensively scrutinized. Finally, the function of public-access channel is evaluated in terms of grass-root communication. The difficulties and problems the operators face when operate public-access channels were also included. A multi-method design which included library research, in-depth interview, mailed questionnaire, and telephone survey is set out to understand the operation of cable networks, the programming of public-access channels and the problems faced to the operators. The public-access channel of cable television in Taiwan can be divided into two models: the community-service-model and the community-participation- model. Both of the operators relay the local entertainment and transmit the programs provided by the community groups or individuals. Nevertheless, the operators of the community-participation-model are able to produce a variety of programs, especially the programs related to local public affairs. What is more, parts of them participate and hold community enter tainment. And they implement media education.There are many difficulties and problems faced the operators, including shortage of funds and manpower, and low quality of programs. The operators expect that the cable television Act will be revised. According to the new Act, they will get financial support from the authority, and even produce programs in cooperation with local governments.