Web 2.0 and Social Media

Web 2.0 are web apps that facilitate interactive informartion sharing, interoperability, user-centered design and collaboration on the Web. It allows its users to interact with other users and draws together the capabilities of client-server-side software, content syndication and the use of network protocols. (Gr. 5)

I am certain that everyone is familiar with the Web. If you're not, then how can you read this post right now? =D The Web has evolved and transformed the culture of the world. It opened up to new industries and possibilities, that eventually led to social networking.

Social Networking started with Bulleting Board Systems, file sharing and online news (AOL). Then , came those sites that serve as a database (finding classmates, acquaintances). Weblogs or blogs became an instant hit in the web. These transformed into micro-blogging sites like Twitter, and social network sites like Facebook.

Social networking is already integrated in our culture. Each individual seems to log in to those social sites at least once a day to update their status or comment on posts. It seems surreal that only 30 years ago, we have to pick up the phone and dial a number to know what a friend's up to.
Its impact is ENORMOUS, and undoubtedly changed our lifestyles. Today, it allows us to share and use information, and form relationships online.

Of course, social networking has its banes and boon. We have heard of news about people getting in trouble because of unnecessary sharing of information, fraud, credit theft and simple carelessness. Sometimes, heinous crimes have been committed because of socail networking (murder, kidnapping, rape,etc.)

The intentions of people and groups who developed social networking may have good intentions, but like anything else, if abused, it will lead to horrible consequences.

Still, these will not stop the implementation and influence of social networking in our lives. Even now, we're required to use these sites for our class. o.o It will be interesting how it would turn out for everyone. As of now, I wonder if I could keep blogging every week.


We'll see. =D
Ellie Lao