Technology has changed education for me by allowing me to take classes online. If it wasn't for The Web, I probably would have never enrolled in this course due to my set schedule. With work and family there is no way I could have continued my education through a classroom environment. Yes, it may have been alright for the first few weeks or maybe even quarters, but it would have taken it's toll eventually.
The only way that I see it could be better, is if more classes were available online. I've taken almost every class that I could online and I think I am running out of this great option. Pretty soon all of my classes will need to be face-2-face. While this sounds like no big deal, consider the fact that I get up at 3:30 am for work and I can't even start an on campus class until 5pm.
I think spring quarter I have a late class that's F2F and after class I won't be home until almost 10pm. Now if I were to spend an hour after I got home to do some online class work and wind down a little, I'm looking at close to midnight before I go to bed. With more classes offered online, this would not be a problem.
Saturday, November 28, 2009
Thursday, November 26, 2009
Search Engines
One of the biggest changes in the way I learn is through search engines. Search engines make finding out information a much easier, simpler, and faster process. Search engines on the web have made everything so much easier.
One area where search engines have helped just about every students is research papers. As you all know, doing research on a topic before the web required you to go to the library and read books. Books are good in many ways, but being able to find the same information on the web in just a few seconds is an even better thing. Not only do you find information quicker, but you also find a lot more information than what you would in your local library. Even though some information may not be accurate, the same thing can be said about books. Just because the information is in a book does not mean it is correct. So I see nothing bad about search engines. Being able to save time during the research process, enables you to spend more time working on creating a more creative and exciting paper.
Search engines are a crucial part of the way everyone learns on the web. Having quick and simple access to any kind of information we want is something we may take for granted now. I know if all the search engines on the web stopped working I would be loss. As would many other web users. The search engine technology has had a huge impact on the way everyone learns!
One area where search engines have helped just about every students is research papers. As you all know, doing research on a topic before the web required you to go to the library and read books. Books are good in many ways, but being able to find the same information on the web in just a few seconds is an even better thing. Not only do you find information quicker, but you also find a lot more information than what you would in your local library. Even though some information may not be accurate, the same thing can be said about books. Just because the information is in a book does not mean it is correct. So I see nothing bad about search engines. Being able to save time during the research process, enables you to spend more time working on creating a more creative and exciting paper.
Search engines are a crucial part of the way everyone learns on the web. Having quick and simple access to any kind of information we want is something we may take for granted now. I know if all the search engines on the web stopped working I would be loss. As would many other web users. The search engine technology has had a huge impact on the way everyone learns!
Learning to Use Web Technology
Well, the turkey is eaten; the friends and family are gone, but what a wonderful time of fun and fellowship we had! Hopefully all of you had a great Thanksgiving and enjoyed some time with your loved ones.
It’s surprising how quickly we can take the things we have for granted. When I think of computer and Web technology, I usually consider it something that I have discovered mainly during my time in college. Yet looking back, I realize that have benefited from it for quite some time.
I didn’t really spend much time online until 8th grade. Before that, the library and our faithful set of encyclopedias were my main references for information. That changed when I took a debate class in 2002.
Our resolution was “that the United States should significantly change its trade policy with the Middle East and/or Africa.” Depending on a coin toss, each student would argue either in favor of or against the resolution during the debate round. Each of us had to develop his/her own case for fulfilling this resolution and also prepare to defend the status quo.
Considering how quickly things were changing in these regions, it was often difficult to obtain current information. Finding many of the publications in libraries to be out-of-date, we often sought information online. This was rather overwhelming at first. There seemed to be so much information to sort through, but I was able to find plenty of useful evidence.
Although we delighted in this newfound wealth of references, we quickly learned that not all information found online was credible. In a debate, it is your evidence against your opponent’s. The source, author, and publication date all came into question as we challenged each other’s arguments and references. Our research skills improved as we learned to consider every side of the argument and build a strong set of evidence to support our cases.
Seven years later, I am taking my skills a step further as I explore the capabilities of Web 2.0. Research and online learning have now become interactive as I have the opportunity to ask questions and contribute my own thoughts and feedback. Overall, it has been a rich and dynamic learning experience.
I began exploring the Web as part of my education, and that experience has strongly shaped how I use this technology. I think incorporating Web 2.0 tools into education is great way to familiarize students with using the Web productively and effectively. As we saw in several of our video lectures, there is a concern that many young people are not skilled in processing and validating online information. By using Web 2.0 tools in the classroom, instructors can communicate in a language that the students are familiar with and also guide them in using these tools effectively.
Happy Thanksgiving everyone!
It’s surprising how quickly we can take the things we have for granted. When I think of computer and Web technology, I usually consider it something that I have discovered mainly during my time in college. Yet looking back, I realize that have benefited from it for quite some time.
I didn’t really spend much time online until 8th grade. Before that, the library and our faithful set of encyclopedias were my main references for information. That changed when I took a debate class in 2002.
Our resolution was “that the United States should significantly change its trade policy with the Middle East and/or Africa.” Depending on a coin toss, each student would argue either in favor of or against the resolution during the debate round. Each of us had to develop his/her own case for fulfilling this resolution and also prepare to defend the status quo.
Considering how quickly things were changing in these regions, it was often difficult to obtain current information. Finding many of the publications in libraries to be out-of-date, we often sought information online. This was rather overwhelming at first. There seemed to be so much information to sort through, but I was able to find plenty of useful evidence.
Although we delighted in this newfound wealth of references, we quickly learned that not all information found online was credible. In a debate, it is your evidence against your opponent’s. The source, author, and publication date all came into question as we challenged each other’s arguments and references. Our research skills improved as we learned to consider every side of the argument and build a strong set of evidence to support our cases.
Seven years later, I am taking my skills a step further as I explore the capabilities of Web 2.0. Research and online learning have now become interactive as I have the opportunity to ask questions and contribute my own thoughts and feedback. Overall, it has been a rich and dynamic learning experience.
I began exploring the Web as part of my education, and that experience has strongly shaped how I use this technology. I think incorporating Web 2.0 tools into education is great way to familiarize students with using the Web productively and effectively. As we saw in several of our video lectures, there is a concern that many young people are not skilled in processing and validating online information. By using Web 2.0 tools in the classroom, instructors can communicate in a language that the students are familiar with and also guide them in using these tools effectively.
Happy Thanksgiving everyone!
Technology in Education
Over the years, every time there was an advancement in technology it changed the way I learned and gathered information. I have to say the biggest shift was when I started college, and I started viewing the Web as a viable resource. Things like search engines and video lectures/tutorials really helped me learn new concepts. For me, it is the fastest and easiest way to gather information and study subjects that I don't have a good base of knowledge for. For classes like "Multimedia II", video tutorials helped me with the more advanced capabilities of ActionScript 3.
After thinking about it for some time, I can only think of a few ways to improve on what's already here. After studying Web trends in this class, things seem to be becoming more interactive. Between things like Skype chats and interactive tutorials, I think this would be a massive improvement on what we have. Under most circumstances, students can learn much more in an interactive setting than in typical "Cram & Test" environment. With the technology advancing at an exponential rate, this type of learning is becoming easier to utilize in a Web environment.
After thinking about it for some time, I can only think of a few ways to improve on what's already here. After studying Web trends in this class, things seem to be becoming more interactive. Between things like Skype chats and interactive tutorials, I think this would be a massive improvement on what we have. Under most circumstances, students can learn much more in an interactive setting than in typical "Cram & Test" environment. With the technology advancing at an exponential rate, this type of learning is becoming easier to utilize in a Web environment.
Saturday, November 21, 2009
Evolving Web has been the most advanced class that I have taken online using newer technologies. The use of the video lectures has been extremely beneficial because of how vivid the points being expressed are communicated. I can see how using podcasts would be beneficial; I could take the lectures from class with me and watch them on my own time and not be tied to my computer screen. I would like to see this be used more often for lectures and maybe assignments like 'guided notes'. This class has been the most advanced in using Web 2.0 technologies for teaching purposes. I can see how much easier learning would be if other classes were to implement the technology Evolving Web already uses.
Most of my Web 2.0 knowledge has been derived solely from this class. Otherwise, I have only heard of some of the available technologies. I have used Wikis for information and used social networking before, but never blogged, watched podcasts, edited or contributed to a Wiki, etc. Having this kind of information at my disposal and learning how the technology of Web 2.0 improves communication has opened my eyes to a lot of new possibilities. I like the idea of Wikis but I think it is hard when a bunch of designers are running the page because it seems like people focus on the cosmetics rather than the content, but I see where they can be beneficial. I think the blog has been a nice tool for reflecting on what we have learned and reiterate the knowledge we have gained. Likewise, responding to others blogs allows us to use our knowledge for discussion and aids comprehension. If other classes were able to implement the tools Evolving Web has (at the minimum) I feel that online classes will be more educational and interesting, with the ability to take learning to a new level.
Most of my Web 2.0 knowledge has been derived solely from this class. Otherwise, I have only heard of some of the available technologies. I have used Wikis for information and used social networking before, but never blogged, watched podcasts, edited or contributed to a Wiki, etc. Having this kind of information at my disposal and learning how the technology of Web 2.0 improves communication has opened my eyes to a lot of new possibilities. I like the idea of Wikis but I think it is hard when a bunch of designers are running the page because it seems like people focus on the cosmetics rather than the content, but I see where they can be beneficial. I think the blog has been a nice tool for reflecting on what we have learned and reiterate the knowledge we have gained. Likewise, responding to others blogs allows us to use our knowledge for discussion and aids comprehension. If other classes were able to implement the tools Evolving Web has (at the minimum) I feel that online classes will be more educational and interesting, with the ability to take learning to a new level.
Friday, November 20, 2009
Web 2.0 and the Learning Experience
While I may never have my own blog, wiki, or podcast, I have a better understanding of how each is used. For now, these are limited only to the classroom for me. I pretty much keep to myself and family so these really have no use to me at the moment.
On the other hand, they have helped with most of my online learning classes by allowing communication with the instructor and other classmates. Through the use of blogging in this class and my digifun class, I feel my learning has broadened.
Also, with the help of 2.0 tools, we have access to video lectures and more in-depth help with the introduction of dimdim meetings. The video lectures are really helpful for me because I like being able to take the class online, but I retain information better if it is spoken. Through the use of dimdim, the instructor can guide me step-by-step and show me in great detail how to accomplish a task.
On the other hand, they have helped with most of my online learning classes by allowing communication with the instructor and other classmates. Through the use of blogging in this class and my digifun class, I feel my learning has broadened.
Also, with the help of 2.0 tools, we have access to video lectures and more in-depth help with the introduction of dimdim meetings. The video lectures are really helpful for me because I like being able to take the class online, but I retain information better if it is spoken. Through the use of dimdim, the instructor can guide me step-by-step and show me in great detail how to accomplish a task.
Thursday, November 19, 2009
Learning through Web 2.0
When I consider how Web 2.0 has affected the way we are taught and how we learn, I immediately think of the online classes I have taken. As we have experienced this quarter, Web 2.0 tools such as blogs or streaming video have enabled us to have rich learning experience outside of a classroom environment. Online courses have certainly changed the way I learn, challenging me to manage my own study time and testing my ability to research and communicate clearly through my writing.
After experiencing these tools in an online class, it is exciting to see Web 2.0 being incorporated into face-to-face classes in a variety of ways. My Mass Media Communications class had a blog that we contributed to each week. Through the blog, I was able to benefit from the perspectives of people who never spoke in the classroom. While I was taking Web II, I met with my group members through Skype as we discussed our project and shared files back and forth. In situations like these, Web 2.0 has enriched the communication I have had with my face-to-face classmates and broadened my learning experience.
While Web 2.0 tools have increased the amount of interaction I have with other students, I also feel that it has enabled me to learn more independently. Rather than completely relying on the people around me for help or guidance, in many cases I can find the solution online. If I want to know more about a particular photography technique, I can quickly make a Google search and find a wealth of information on independent websites, wikis, blogs or forums. When trying to master a new type of software, there are usually many tutorials that I can turn to online.
I am grateful that our DMD instructors have taught us to use the many resources that are available online. After graduation, it will be up to us to stay current with the changes in the digital media field, and the Web is an invaluable resource for us to continue learning and growing.
How "Web 2.0" Has Changed Learning
Even though I do not believe in the labeling of "Web 2.0", the impact that technology has made as far as learning cannot be ignored. Things like video chat, blogs, wikis, and the spread of broadband internet service have helped shape the environment that has been evolving. Instead of limiting a student to a classroom, we now have the capability of using the Web to influence learning. Take for example the videos that Bill uses for our lecture every week, that would not have been feasible 5 years ago.
We can even have discussions without being in the same area, and have the same level of depth and understanding that used to be limited to a classroom setting. Technology is finally catching up to what the Web was meant to be, an area free for expression and learning that is not tethered to any specific location. As long as you have a device capable of reaching the Web, you have access to the worlds largest tool for learning and sharing.
The Web of Learning Blog is also a great example. We have some great discussions, especially about the topics that require a deeper thinking and understanding. If you need to learn more about a topic that we are talking about, the Web is great for that too. At least for me, my first resource is a search engine. Even though sometimes you can get bad information, if you know what to look for in the results you can find any information you desire. We have become so used to looking for information this way, the company name "Google" is a noun as well as a verb. Even in the media, they tell you to find out about things by "Google-ing" it.
Whatever you like to call this advancement, there is no possible way to deny the impact it has had on the way we learn and search for information. Now that this capability is around, it would be dearly missed if it ever went away.
We can even have discussions without being in the same area, and have the same level of depth and understanding that used to be limited to a classroom setting. Technology is finally catching up to what the Web was meant to be, an area free for expression and learning that is not tethered to any specific location. As long as you have a device capable of reaching the Web, you have access to the worlds largest tool for learning and sharing.
The Web of Learning Blog is also a great example. We have some great discussions, especially about the topics that require a deeper thinking and understanding. If you need to learn more about a topic that we are talking about, the Web is great for that too. At least for me, my first resource is a search engine. Even though sometimes you can get bad information, if you know what to look for in the results you can find any information you desire. We have become so used to looking for information this way, the company name "Google" is a noun as well as a verb. Even in the media, they tell you to find out about things by "Google-ing" it.
Whatever you like to call this advancement, there is no possible way to deny the impact it has had on the way we learn and search for information. Now that this capability is around, it would be dearly missed if it ever went away.
RSS
Web 2.0 technology has had a great impact on my learning. These tools have made using the web faster and easier than ever before. When I first got access to the Internet everything was much slower. Checking up on my favorite web sites was a very slow process, but thanks to RSS feeds that has all changed.
RSS has made learning and absorbing information easier and faster. I can quickly be updated on all of the web sites I visit frequently. I first learned about RSS on some of the technology shows I watched regularly like The Screen Savers on TechTV. I did not see any need for it at that time. I was too lazy to set things up. Also, at that time RSS was not as widespread as it is today. I finally decided to try out RSS when I started watching more podcasts three or four years ago. This made downloading content much easier and faster. I saw the full potential of RSS when I started using Google Reader to get an updated view of all my favorite web sites.
Readers like Google Reader make viewing the web a whole different experience. I can quickly glance at 10 or 15 articles in a matter of just seconds or minutes, saving me a great deal of precious time. This greatly impacts the way I learn. Ever since using RSS I have noticed I expect to get the information I need quick and easy. Sites that have no RSS feeds seem old and out of date. I still visit them, but I prefer they had a feed to subscribe to. About 70 to 80% of the sites I visit have some sort of RSS feed to subscribe though. I predict this number will continue to go up over the next couple years.
RSS has become a critical part of the web. It has affected my learning in every aspect. I hope in the future more use of the RSS technology is used for online courses. If you are not using RSS I would highly recommend it. Firefox, Opera, Chrome, Safari and IE all have addons and tools built in to read RSS feeds. There are also online tools like Google Reader that can read RSS feeds.
RSS has made learning and absorbing information easier and faster. I can quickly be updated on all of the web sites I visit frequently. I first learned about RSS on some of the technology shows I watched regularly like The Screen Savers on TechTV. I did not see any need for it at that time. I was too lazy to set things up. Also, at that time RSS was not as widespread as it is today. I finally decided to try out RSS when I started watching more podcasts three or four years ago. This made downloading content much easier and faster. I saw the full potential of RSS when I started using Google Reader to get an updated view of all my favorite web sites.
Readers like Google Reader make viewing the web a whole different experience. I can quickly glance at 10 or 15 articles in a matter of just seconds or minutes, saving me a great deal of precious time. This greatly impacts the way I learn. Ever since using RSS I have noticed I expect to get the information I need quick and easy. Sites that have no RSS feeds seem old and out of date. I still visit them, but I prefer they had a feed to subscribe to. About 70 to 80% of the sites I visit have some sort of RSS feed to subscribe though. I predict this number will continue to go up over the next couple years.
RSS has become a critical part of the web. It has affected my learning in every aspect. I hope in the future more use of the RSS technology is used for online courses. If you are not using RSS I would highly recommend it. Firefox, Opera, Chrome, Safari and IE all have addons and tools built in to read RSS feeds. There are also online tools like Google Reader that can read RSS feeds.
Saturday, November 14, 2009
Evolving to Web 2.0
Tim Berners-Lee should be very proud of his accomplishments for the development of Web 1.0 and the advancements it has given the opportunity for. Likewise, he should also be very proud that his ideas are the foundation for Web 2.0. Blogging, podcasts, and social medias may be different than what he ever anticipated the web becoming, however, did he think that his invention would stay the same forever? Every technology advances to meet the needs of our changing world. One person never has control of a technology because someone else will always think of a way to make it better.
Now more than ever people need to be in control of the media. Without our control, news organizations will only provide us with information that they think is important. Blogging, RSS feeds, podcasts, etc. are giving the control of the media to the people of the world so that we can collaborate to inform each other in all aspects. If everyone is more knowledgeable of issues taking place in the world, we are that much more likely to conquer, reform and participate in making our future better.
Freedom of speech is our fundamental right. Web 2.0 has given us even more opportunity to exercise our freedom which could change the world. Without communication, the Diffusion of Innovations Theory shows that rarely no new innovations would never be adopted. Likewise, the Systems Theory contributes to the concept of the social role for communication and public relations helping society function positively. (Structural Functionalist School of Sociology: Durkheim, 1893/1984) Using this asset to our advantage could turn everything in the world in a new direction aiding in environmental problems, world hunger, and global peace.
Now more than ever people need to be in control of the media. Without our control, news organizations will only provide us with information that they think is important. Blogging, RSS feeds, podcasts, etc. are giving the control of the media to the people of the world so that we can collaborate to inform each other in all aspects. If everyone is more knowledgeable of issues taking place in the world, we are that much more likely to conquer, reform and participate in making our future better.
Freedom of speech is our fundamental right. Web 2.0 has given us even more opportunity to exercise our freedom which could change the world. Without communication, the Diffusion of Innovations Theory shows that rarely no new innovations would never be adopted. Likewise, the Systems Theory contributes to the concept of the social role for communication and public relations helping society function positively. (Structural Functionalist School of Sociology: Durkheim, 1893/1984) Using this asset to our advantage could turn everything in the world in a new direction aiding in environmental problems, world hunger, and global peace.
What Makes Web 2.0 Good? Blogs and Podcasts!
I agree with Tim Berners-Lee about "Web 2.0". It really is just a bunch of jargon. However, it is a term that will never go away until "Web 3.0". Whenever that happens. A lot of good things have come from Web 2.0.
Blogging is one of the most important technologies to come from Web 2.0. Before blogs, if someone wanted to make a website for free this would not be such an easy task. They generally would use a site like Yahoo!'s Geocities (which has just officially closed). I remember using Geocities a long time ago. It was pretty awful in my opinion. Now with sites like Blogger and Wordpress you can make a blog into a profession website for free. I think this is important for the web. Tim Berners-Lee was trying to make it easier for people to be connected and give them a voice. Blogs makes it easy for people to make their voice heard. I think Blogs will continue to be a very important part of the Web for many years to come.
Podcasting is quickly replacing TV for me. I use to get all my technology news from a TV channel called TechTV. However, they were merged with G4 and eventually my favorite show, The Screen Savers, got replaced by The Attack of the Show (a bad version of The Screen Savers with less content about technology). One of the hosts on the show, Kevin Rose (founder of Digg) started a podcast with the other host of The Screen Savers called DiggNation. Not only is it my favorite podcast, it is also my favorite show period.
DiggNation has over 200 episodes and over the past 4 years the production value has continued to go up. Podcasts can be just as good as regular TV shows. Because of podcasts one of my favorite shows that was cancelled was able to continue in the form of a podcast. DiggNation now has it's own company that produces various podcasts each week called Revision3. They have a wide range of shows, all of which are very well made. Another podcast that spinned off from The Screen Savers is This Week In Tech (or TWIT). I would highly recommend it to anyone interested in tech news.
Web 2.0 technologies have helped make the Web even better. I think some technologies like social networking need improvements. A lot of good has come from Web 2.0 like Blogs, RSS, and Podcasts. I'm excited to see what the future has in store for the Web!
Blogging is one of the most important technologies to come from Web 2.0. Before blogs, if someone wanted to make a website for free this would not be such an easy task. They generally would use a site like Yahoo!'s Geocities (which has just officially closed). I remember using Geocities a long time ago. It was pretty awful in my opinion. Now with sites like Blogger and Wordpress you can make a blog into a profession website for free. I think this is important for the web. Tim Berners-Lee was trying to make it easier for people to be connected and give them a voice. Blogs makes it easy for people to make their voice heard. I think Blogs will continue to be a very important part of the Web for many years to come.
Podcasting is quickly replacing TV for me. I use to get all my technology news from a TV channel called TechTV. However, they were merged with G4 and eventually my favorite show, The Screen Savers, got replaced by The Attack of the Show (a bad version of The Screen Savers with less content about technology). One of the hosts on the show, Kevin Rose (founder of Digg) started a podcast with the other host of The Screen Savers called DiggNation. Not only is it my favorite podcast, it is also my favorite show period.
DiggNation has over 200 episodes and over the past 4 years the production value has continued to go up. Podcasts can be just as good as regular TV shows. Because of podcasts one of my favorite shows that was cancelled was able to continue in the form of a podcast. DiggNation now has it's own company that produces various podcasts each week called Revision3. They have a wide range of shows, all of which are very well made. Another podcast that spinned off from The Screen Savers is This Week In Tech (or TWIT). I would highly recommend it to anyone interested in tech news.
Web 2.0 technologies have helped make the Web even better. I think some technologies like social networking need improvements. A lot of good has come from Web 2.0 like Blogs, RSS, and Podcasts. I'm excited to see what the future has in store for the Web!
Friday, November 13, 2009
The teacher is the core
This past week I have learned that for education to succeed, the teacher's themselves need to commit. An example of this is my online Digital Software Fundamentals class. While my class (or at least me), is right on schedule, I have talked to other students who are taking this subject in class, and they are 2-3 weeks behind us.
This I feel is due to the difference in teaching. While I have to email my professor if I have any problems, the in class students have the opportunity of being face to face. My teacher usually replies promptly to emails and she also does a video chat on Thursday night. The in class teacher I've heard does nothing. He just tells his students what chapter to do and expects them to do it. An example of this would be what I observed Tuesday night.
I showed up to class early and some people were still in there with the teacher trying to get assignments done. One student asked for help multiple times only to get the response " You'll have to wait. I'm busy transferring files." Now the student is already aggravated and irritated with the assignment, so I walked over to see if I could help out. I showed them how to do it and the teacher acted like I was trying to steal his job.
If a student is getting frustrated, what good is it doing to ignore them? They are just going to get to the point where they give up. Some teachers need to realise that not everyone "gets it". They are being paid to teach and help others learn. I'm not saying that all students are equal in their learning abilities, but I know this one was trying and was not getting any help. I could even understand if the teacher was busy with another student, but he wasn't. The files were already transferring and didn't need to be watched during the whole process.
This I feel is due to the difference in teaching. While I have to email my professor if I have any problems, the in class students have the opportunity of being face to face. My teacher usually replies promptly to emails and she also does a video chat on Thursday night. The in class teacher I've heard does nothing. He just tells his students what chapter to do and expects them to do it. An example of this would be what I observed Tuesday night.
I showed up to class early and some people were still in there with the teacher trying to get assignments done. One student asked for help multiple times only to get the response " You'll have to wait. I'm busy transferring files." Now the student is already aggravated and irritated with the assignment, so I walked over to see if I could help out. I showed them how to do it and the teacher acted like I was trying to steal his job.
If a student is getting frustrated, what good is it doing to ignore them? They are just going to get to the point where they give up. Some teachers need to realise that not everyone "gets it". They are being paid to teach and help others learn. I'm not saying that all students are equal in their learning abilities, but I know this one was trying and was not getting any help. I could even understand if the teacher was busy with another student, but he wasn't. The files were already transferring and didn't need to be watched during the whole process.
Thursday, November 12, 2009
Observing Web 2.0
"It was not long ago, on an Internet that did not yet include the World Wide Web, that finding files and resources or even locating a site on the Internet was considered a challenge…Overall, one’s interaction with the Internet was very narrow in focus and primitive in operation…” J. R. Okin The Information Revolution
Today, the Internet presents itself as the complete opposite, as the keys to a wealth of information that is easy to access, manipulate, and contribute to. It is still incredible to realize how much the Web has changed things. It enabled everyday people to access information online, but that was only the beginning.
With Web 2.0 the user has changed from a mere observer to an influential contributor. The transition from Web 1.0 to Web 2.0 marks the Web’s transformation from a mere collection of information to a dynamic environment where users can easily connect and interact. The data itself has changed from a compilation of rigid facts conveyed by a select few to a growing source of information that is constantly evolving as it is shaped by the masses.
We could go back and forth about what exactly Web 2.0 means or whether the term even has significance, but no one can deny that the Web has seen some major changes in recent years.
Sometimes I feel almost breathless, but not necessarily from participating. I am fascinated by this rapidly changing environment and the new tools that are shaping it, but I am far from being immersed. There is so much being said and shared; yet I feel that I have been more of an observer than a contributor.
I’m not sure why this is the case. I created a Flickr account in 2008 for a class assignment, but that typography project remains the sole image in my photostream. I have read a variety of blogs, but I almost never comment. I have gained a substantial amount of information from forums, but there are none that I visit on a regular basis. Perhaps it is lack of time, but I haven’t felt a strong need to become involved.
I think part of the reason is that I’ve yet to embrace the Web as a means of social interaction. Engaging in casual conversation is something I typically do in person, and I’m not sure that I will ever transition to making friends or keeping up relationships online.
For me, the Web is a tool for gaining information. If I ever engage in a conversation, it for a specific (usually academic) purpose. While I may never become a “social butterfly” online, perhaps I should consider contributing useful information on the Web and more actively helping other users. I have gained a good deal of knowledge through the efforts of other people, yet I haven’t given much in return. Somewhere out there are a few Web designers that took the time to answer my beginner questions, and perhaps I should look for ways to pass that kindness on.
Today, the Internet presents itself as the complete opposite, as the keys to a wealth of information that is easy to access, manipulate, and contribute to. It is still incredible to realize how much the Web has changed things. It enabled everyday people to access information online, but that was only the beginning.
With Web 2.0 the user has changed from a mere observer to an influential contributor. The transition from Web 1.0 to Web 2.0 marks the Web’s transformation from a mere collection of information to a dynamic environment where users can easily connect and interact. The data itself has changed from a compilation of rigid facts conveyed by a select few to a growing source of information that is constantly evolving as it is shaped by the masses.
We could go back and forth about what exactly Web 2.0 means or whether the term even has significance, but no one can deny that the Web has seen some major changes in recent years.
Sometimes I feel almost breathless, but not necessarily from participating. I am fascinated by this rapidly changing environment and the new tools that are shaping it, but I am far from being immersed. There is so much being said and shared; yet I feel that I have been more of an observer than a contributor.
I’m not sure why this is the case. I created a Flickr account in 2008 for a class assignment, but that typography project remains the sole image in my photostream. I have read a variety of blogs, but I almost never comment. I have gained a substantial amount of information from forums, but there are none that I visit on a regular basis. Perhaps it is lack of time, but I haven’t felt a strong need to become involved.
I think part of the reason is that I’ve yet to embrace the Web as a means of social interaction. Engaging in casual conversation is something I typically do in person, and I’m not sure that I will ever transition to making friends or keeping up relationships online.
For me, the Web is a tool for gaining information. If I ever engage in a conversation, it for a specific (usually academic) purpose. While I may never become a “social butterfly” online, perhaps I should consider contributing useful information on the Web and more actively helping other users. I have gained a good deal of knowledge through the efforts of other people, yet I haven’t given much in return. Somewhere out there are a few Web designers that took the time to answer my beginner questions, and perhaps I should look for ways to pass that kindness on.
Is Web 2.0 a Sham?
Considering the lecture this week, I figured it would be a good opportunity to comment on what Web 2.0 really is to me. I side with Tim Berners-Lee on the subject, it is just jargon. The concept of "Web 2.0" is what Lee wanted from the Web to begin with. People have always been connected to people through the Web, I feel as though the tools are just becoming more advanced to achieve the same goal. It is in our nature to connect with people as much as possible, and whenever possible.
This is not to say I think the Web has not advanced, it undoubtedly has. I just believe in giving credit where credit is due. Things like Blogs and Wikis have changed things greatly, giving more power to people who wish to create and distribute content (and considering the mass opinion of the News Media, this does not surprise me). We have been increasing the size and scope of the Web since the project began, just consider the transition from strictly lab use to allowing everyone to take part. The Web grows in size on a daily basis, and seems to be something that if allowed will never stop growing (take that, Skynet!).
So call it what you will, but I think the Web does not require a "2.0". The Web continues to expand, and is constantly evolving. It grows in such a fashion that we cannot begin to detect it's impact until months after the growth actually happened. There is no way to predict what the next big thing will be, but rest assured that people will make the Web continue to grow and evolve.
This is not to say I think the Web has not advanced, it undoubtedly has. I just believe in giving credit where credit is due. Things like Blogs and Wikis have changed things greatly, giving more power to people who wish to create and distribute content (and considering the mass opinion of the News Media, this does not surprise me). We have been increasing the size and scope of the Web since the project began, just consider the transition from strictly lab use to allowing everyone to take part. The Web grows in size on a daily basis, and seems to be something that if allowed will never stop growing (take that, Skynet!).
So call it what you will, but I think the Web does not require a "2.0". The Web continues to expand, and is constantly evolving. It grows in such a fashion that we cannot begin to detect it's impact until months after the growth actually happened. There is no way to predict what the next big thing will be, but rest assured that people will make the Web continue to grow and evolve.
Saturday, November 7, 2009
Digital communication is important to me. I have physically drifted far from most of my personal relationships and several different online media collections make it possible to stay close. Beyond the obvious personal sites, I also like to get involved in the forums for beta software and games. I use them to gather information for problems as well as ideas. Video sites like hulu.com and my personal favorite lyric site songmeanings.net allow users to post directly on page about mainstream shows and music.
I generally do not keep one media over another as I tend to just want to learn what I am interested at the time. However, a photographer I learned of from my photographer class has been bookmarked and on my favorite bar. Besides having a charmingly dry humor like myself, Joe McNally gives amazing tips and even has projects with prizes to people who enter their own photographs to be judged. He created a community just based on his personal interest and tips to aspiring photographers, certainly a fantastic use of Web 2.0!
http://www.joemcnally.com/blog/
I generally do not keep one media over another as I tend to just want to learn what I am interested at the time. However, a photographer I learned of from my photographer class has been bookmarked and on my favorite bar. Besides having a charmingly dry humor like myself, Joe McNally gives amazing tips and even has projects with prizes to people who enter their own photographs to be judged. He created a community just based on his personal interest and tips to aspiring photographers, certainly a fantastic use of Web 2.0!
http://www.joemcnally.com/blog/
Google is my friend
When I first started DMD I didn't even know what a flash drive was; this is so funny to me now to see how far I have come. Avidly I use tutorials and forums for guidance. Most of my searches are for web coding purposes, however I love Google and search with it for anything.
I find that Google has never steered me in the wrong direction. Many of my searches have established my favorites menu. In the Digital Graphics area I have found the following sites helpful and check them on a regular basis:
I find that Google has never steered me in the wrong direction. Many of my searches have established my favorites menu. In the Digital Graphics area I have found the following sites helpful and check them on a regular basis:
As for the web option I am still pretty new, however sites that were helpful with PHP included PHPfreaks and TutorialGuide. Most of the time I would start off my sites by making an outline so that I could look up anything I wasn't sure of before I started. In most cases I've been able to use Google and follow my search with 'forum' or 'tutorial'.
Technology has not changed the way I learn, however it has allowed for more opportunity.
Forums and Me
Forums have changed my life completely. I am a huge gaming nerd and frequent quite a few forums concerning the various games that I play. Through these forums, I have developed quite a few friendships from all parts of the world.
Forums are a really great source of information, where many people get involved in what is happening with that particular subject. Everyone involved has their own particular point of view and perception about what is happening. This gives me the opportunity to read through the posts and form my own opinion.
From a gamers perspective, forums are intuitive when you are having trouble with a certain part of the game. I visit http://www.wowhead.com/ a lot while I am trying to do a quest. I open the web page, type in the name of the quest that is giving me trouble, and I can find out how others have done it.
I have also experienced that while some people may not be honest in their own game play, forums give everyone else the opportunity to warn others about that person.
Forums are a really great source of information, where many people get involved in what is happening with that particular subject. Everyone involved has their own particular point of view and perception about what is happening. This gives me the opportunity to read through the posts and form my own opinion.
From a gamers perspective, forums are intuitive when you are having trouble with a certain part of the game. I visit http://www.wowhead.com/ a lot while I am trying to do a quest. I open the web page, type in the name of the quest that is giving me trouble, and I can find out how others have done it.
I have also experienced that while some people may not be honest in their own game play, forums give everyone else the opportunity to warn others about that person.
Friday, November 6, 2009
Learning through video...
The Digital Media Design program has helped expose me to a lot of Web 2.0 tools with which I was previously unfamiliar. Each new DMD subject has been a unique challenge, and the Internet has been an invaluable resource for solving problems and finding answers. The search for this information has exposed me to blogs, forums, streaming media, instant messaging and other aspects of the Web that I had not yet explored.
Although I have used a variety of online resources, streaming video has been one of the most helpful to me. I like having a visual and audible explanation, but also the freedom to work through the material at my own pace. Video tutorials are especially useful in learning new software because you can actually watch the instructor navigate the interface. When I was learning to use the Adobe applications, I found lots of video tutorials online that really helped me. The Adobe Video Workshop is a great resource that I still use regularly.
I have also used video tutorials to help broaden my understanding of technology and the Web. RSS, social networking, podcasts, wikis, and Web 2.0 are all things that I was fairly unfamiliar with before I entered the program. In class, I would often hear terms that I didn’t really understand, so I would look them up later online. Sometimes the answer was simple; sometimes it took a more thorough explanation. Actually, one of the resources I used several times was commoncraft.com. To a digital native, the concepts explained in their technology tutorials might seem obvious, but they were helpful to someone like me.
Right now, I am watching a series of video tutorials called jQuery for Absolute Beginners. For me, any new type of coding is a little confusing at first, and it has been great to watch someone demonstrate using jQuery in a step-by-step process. While textbooks can be helpful and great references, I think video lectures and tutorials are useful in taking complex subjects and presenting them in a way that is straightforward and easy to understand.
Although I have used a variety of online resources, streaming video has been one of the most helpful to me. I like having a visual and audible explanation, but also the freedom to work through the material at my own pace. Video tutorials are especially useful in learning new software because you can actually watch the instructor navigate the interface. When I was learning to use the Adobe applications, I found lots of video tutorials online that really helped me. The Adobe Video Workshop is a great resource that I still use regularly.
I have also used video tutorials to help broaden my understanding of technology and the Web. RSS, social networking, podcasts, wikis, and Web 2.0 are all things that I was fairly unfamiliar with before I entered the program. In class, I would often hear terms that I didn’t really understand, so I would look them up later online. Sometimes the answer was simple; sometimes it took a more thorough explanation. Actually, one of the resources I used several times was commoncraft.com. To a digital native, the concepts explained in their technology tutorials might seem obvious, but they were helpful to someone like me.
Right now, I am watching a series of video tutorials called jQuery for Absolute Beginners. For me, any new type of coding is a little confusing at first, and it has been great to watch someone demonstrate using jQuery in a step-by-step process. While textbooks can be helpful and great references, I think video lectures and tutorials are useful in taking complex subjects and presenting them in a way that is straightforward and easy to understand.
Thursday, November 5, 2009
How Wikis Have Affected My Learning
Technology as a whole has influenced me and affected my learning a great deal. However, wikis have had the greatest influence on my learning. Even though I watch podcasts everyday, get the latest information on my favorite sites via RSS; I still feel wikis are what have affected my learning the most
I love wikis! I use them every single day. One of my favorite sites is Wikia. Just type in a hobby or interest and you will probably find a whole wiki about that topic. Some of them are better than others, but there is quite a bit of information on this site. This site has expanded my mind and exposed me to new interests and hobbies. You can also go to Google. Type in a subject and add wiki to the end. If you look through the results you may find a whole site dedicated 
to that subject that uses the wiki technology. I know some of my favorite hobbies have their own site that uses wiki. WoW Wiki (a wiki for World of Warcraft information) is one I use every day. This is just one of dozens of different wiki sites I check daily. Another great site I would recommend is wikiHow.
It is hard not to mention Wikipedia. It is the site that made wikis popular. Because of this site many people have been exposed to the idea of wikis. Wikipedia has made wiki into this amazing platform for information. My favorite thing about Wikipedia is that I will start looking something up, and then find a few more links in that article about something completely different. Wikis are even used in some of my favorite sites. One great example is Last.FM. Last.FM allows you to change and edit the artist description through their wiki. They also use the wiki technology for lyrics.
Because of wikis I have quicker access to information. If I ever want to know something I can go to Google. Type in what I am looking for and just add wiki at the end. And I almost always will find a wiki article about the subject. When I first got the Internet I would have never bothered looking something up if it was not important. It was harder to find quality information on certain subjects back before wikis became popular. Now things have become much easier with wikis. This has affected my learning. I have learned a great deal of knowledge over the years from different wiki websites; some useful, some not as useful.
I consider wikis to be the most important technology on the Internet. Streaming media sites are important too, but wikis have more quality content. I know some teachers, especially English teachers, will tell students that you can not use wikis. Every one of my English teachers I have had would take points off if you reference Wikipedia. I completely disagree with them, and I think they should take more time to understand this amazing technology before dismissing it. Without wikis I would be a completely different person.
I love wikis! I use them every single day. One of my favorite sites is Wikia. Just type in a hobby or interest and you will probably find a whole wiki about that topic. Some of them are better than others, but there is quite a bit of information on this site. This site has expanded my mind and exposed me to new interests and hobbies. You can also go to Google. Type in a subject and add wiki to the end. If you look through the results you may find a whole site dedicated 
to that subject that uses the wiki technology. I know some of my favorite hobbies have their own site that uses wiki. WoW Wiki (a wiki for World of Warcraft information) is one I use every day. This is just one of dozens of different wiki sites I check daily. Another great site I would recommend is wikiHow.
It is hard not to mention Wikipedia. It is the site that made wikis popular. Because of this site many people have been exposed to the idea of wikis. Wikipedia has made wiki into this amazing platform for information. My favorite thing about Wikipedia is that I will start looking something up, and then find a few more links in that article about something completely different. Wikis are even used in some of my favorite sites. One great example is Last.FM. Last.FM allows you to change and edit the artist description through their wiki. They also use the wiki technology for lyrics.Because of wikis I have quicker access to information. If I ever want to know something I can go to Google. Type in what I am looking for and just add wiki at the end. And I almost always will find a wiki article about the subject. When I first got the Internet I would have never bothered looking something up if it was not important. It was harder to find quality information on certain subjects back before wikis became popular. Now things have become much easier with wikis. This has affected my learning. I have learned a great deal of knowledge over the years from different wiki websites; some useful, some not as useful.
I consider wikis to be the most important technology on the Internet. Streaming media sites are important too, but wikis have more quality content. I know some teachers, especially English teachers, will tell students that you can not use wikis. Every one of my English teachers I have had would take points off if you reference Wikipedia. I completely disagree with them, and I think they should take more time to understand this amazing technology before dismissing it. Without wikis I would be a completely different person.
How Technology Has Affected My Learning
Technology as a whole has affected the way I learn and grow, but there is a certain significance forums have had on my development that I want to talk about. This is not in the traditional scholastic sense, but forums have helped me develop from a social point of view. From a very young age, I was never one to keep many close friends. In conversation, I was never the most well spoken (especially over the phone). It may sound odd, but forums have actually helped me develop those skills I was lacking for so long.
When I write or type, my mind is not tethered to a particular situation. My mind seems to have the right idea most of the time, but the words never seemed to come out right when I was talking to most people in person. By having this venue to speak my mind, over time I realized I could learn how to adapt this to everyday conversation. I started to develop a certain attitude toward social interaction, that I shouldn't worry so much about what others thought of my opinion.
Developing relationships through forums helped me build relationships in the real world, and gave me the confidence to speak my mind clearly without worrying about what others thought. I know this is not learning in the traditional sense, but it was very important to me that I learn these things. I can honestly say these are some of the most important things I have learned through technology, and I know I am not the only one who went through the same things. I still have some trouble in these situations at times, but technology gave me the tools I needed to get a good head start.
When I write or type, my mind is not tethered to a particular situation. My mind seems to have the right idea most of the time, but the words never seemed to come out right when I was talking to most people in person. By having this venue to speak my mind, over time I realized I could learn how to adapt this to everyday conversation. I started to develop a certain attitude toward social interaction, that I shouldn't worry so much about what others thought of my opinion.
Developing relationships through forums helped me build relationships in the real world, and gave me the confidence to speak my mind clearly without worrying about what others thought. I know this is not learning in the traditional sense, but it was very important to me that I learn these things. I can honestly say these are some of the most important things I have learned through technology, and I know I am not the only one who went through the same things. I still have some trouble in these situations at times, but technology gave me the tools I needed to get a good head start.
Wednesday, November 4, 2009
It is what you make of it.
There have been quite a few posts about the vacuum that was high school. As an educator, it's hard to deny that secondary ed has gone downhill rapidly over the last couple of decades due to increased costs butting heads with lower budgets and, of course, No Child Left Behind, which seems to be doing the opposite.
And, truth be told, not all teachers are inspiring...or are really dedicated to teaching as a passion and not a job. You will one day, mark my words, shake your head in wonder that you were allowed to learn from a gifted teacher like Kathleen or Joan McKay.
I am who and what I am due to one amazing individual at my own high school. As a science geek coming from a family of engineers, my life path seemed pretty straight forward. Oh, sure, I was creative, too, but I chalked the photography and writing and other projects up to hobbies or curiosity, not a talent.
Mrs. Price, a 9th grade English teacher, saw something else in me during a brief six week class I had with her. When, two years later, I hadn't shaped up into the kind of person she knew I was, she came hunting for me, and the world of theater that she opened up to me changed me forever. Oh, sure I went on to an advanced engineering school, but Mrs. Price had already ignited the fires of creativity, and I felt restless and unfulfilled until I found a college with a creative program that I could embrace.
Despite the process that would create a completely different person from my rough, freshman clay, I enjoyed just about everything about high school. Well, except PE. I don't think any school offers Phys Ed anymore. That's okay; I did enough push-ups, pull-ups, and laps around the gym for all of you! But I loved English. I loved math...of all kinds. I loved science in all its permutations. Okay, so I wasn't all that enamored with the Government class, but I did manage to get a B+ in it. Ruined my GPA.
I was in the science club, the radio club, the rocket club (which I formed and presided over for four years), drama club, National Thespians, Honor Society, Latin club, the yearbook staff, and the newspaper staff. (I'm probably forgetting a few.) Go ahead, say it: GEEK! (Proudly.) I carried my textbooks home every night and dutifully studied for tests.
Of course, the boys that were popular with the girls were on the Football or Basketball teams, but that's another story.
A good friend's husband whines that he had a miserable time in high school, that he was embarrassed to be thought a good writer and interested in science. He felt a victim and imagines that there was a large group of bullies always waiting for him. He hated every second of high school, far more than seems natural. Really. He makes it sound like Hell on Earth. Perception or truth?
I've been told recently that "It is what it is." Well, that's a little too fatalist for me. I would offer, instead, that "It is what you make of it." Which isn't to say that you can always find a silver lining or that if you had a less than stellar experience in high school that it was all in your mind. But I know from experience that it is possible to find a better path, even in the midst of chaos, if you can focus on what you want, rather than what you have.
This is tougher if you don't really know what you want. But if you listen carefully, you'll find that you will be guided. Call if a gut feeling, an inner voice, or something higher up on the spiritual trail, it's your guide to the rest of your life. Sometimes, if you can't hear that voice, a teacher somewhere will hear it for you and point you in the right direction. But whatever you do, wherever you go, what is does not have to be all there is. What is can be much richer if you give yourself a chance to believe in yourself...or listen to a teacher when he or she believes in you.
And, truth be told, not all teachers are inspiring...or are really dedicated to teaching as a passion and not a job. You will one day, mark my words, shake your head in wonder that you were allowed to learn from a gifted teacher like Kathleen or Joan McKay.
I am who and what I am due to one amazing individual at my own high school. As a science geek coming from a family of engineers, my life path seemed pretty straight forward. Oh, sure, I was creative, too, but I chalked the photography and writing and other projects up to hobbies or curiosity, not a talent.
Mrs. Price, a 9th grade English teacher, saw something else in me during a brief six week class I had with her. When, two years later, I hadn't shaped up into the kind of person she knew I was, she came hunting for me, and the world of theater that she opened up to me changed me forever. Oh, sure I went on to an advanced engineering school, but Mrs. Price had already ignited the fires of creativity, and I felt restless and unfulfilled until I found a college with a creative program that I could embrace.
Despite the process that would create a completely different person from my rough, freshman clay, I enjoyed just about everything about high school. Well, except PE. I don't think any school offers Phys Ed anymore. That's okay; I did enough push-ups, pull-ups, and laps around the gym for all of you! But I loved English. I loved math...of all kinds. I loved science in all its permutations. Okay, so I wasn't all that enamored with the Government class, but I did manage to get a B+ in it. Ruined my GPA.
I was in the science club, the radio club, the rocket club (which I formed and presided over for four years), drama club, National Thespians, Honor Society, Latin club, the yearbook staff, and the newspaper staff. (I'm probably forgetting a few.) Go ahead, say it: GEEK! (Proudly.) I carried my textbooks home every night and dutifully studied for tests.
Of course, the boys that were popular with the girls were on the Football or Basketball teams, but that's another story.
A good friend's husband whines that he had a miserable time in high school, that he was embarrassed to be thought a good writer and interested in science. He felt a victim and imagines that there was a large group of bullies always waiting for him. He hated every second of high school, far more than seems natural. Really. He makes it sound like Hell on Earth. Perception or truth?
I've been told recently that "It is what it is." Well, that's a little too fatalist for me. I would offer, instead, that "It is what you make of it." Which isn't to say that you can always find a silver lining or that if you had a less than stellar experience in high school that it was all in your mind. But I know from experience that it is possible to find a better path, even in the midst of chaos, if you can focus on what you want, rather than what you have.
This is tougher if you don't really know what you want. But if you listen carefully, you'll find that you will be guided. Call if a gut feeling, an inner voice, or something higher up on the spiritual trail, it's your guide to the rest of your life. Sometimes, if you can't hear that voice, a teacher somewhere will hear it for you and point you in the right direction. But whatever you do, wherever you go, what is does not have to be all there is. What is can be much richer if you give yourself a chance to believe in yourself...or listen to a teacher when he or she believes in you.
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