Ever since I began my Master's Degree I have kept hearing the term Web 2.0 as if it were some magical mystical realm that only the very elite had knowledge. It would get dropped out of the air in class discussions, or in web postings in online classes to prove an intellectual argument, but no one ever explained what it meant. This was one of the prime motivations that I had to take this class. I wanted to be let into the club, to see what all of this was about. Now that I have read the textbook (yes I admit I bought the text book six weeks ago and read it) I understand that Web 2.0 is not a thing but rather a means of communicating in todays world. It covers all areas of communications and allows everyone in on the conversation. It is not exclusive, but rather it is inclusive. I realize now that I have been using Web 2.0 tools for quite a long time (Facebook, Wiki, etc.)
Where once I thought I was a follower, I now realize that in some respects I was on the cusp of technology in many areas. My goals for this class: Learn as many tools, and gain as much understanding as possible so that I can use it in my career. Of course with our ever changing technology tools change constantly. What is fashionable today will be scoffed at by my teenage kids tomorrow. But that is one of the reasons I find our field so exciting and challenging. It is not just using the tools, but understanding why the tools are being used. That is what I hope to get out of this class: a process for understanding why people use certain tools.
Thanks, Evan. I appreciate your thoughts. It helps me too. BTW, I started the book weeks ago too. Of course I put it down during the last class, but I really like it. Hope to catch up to your level soon. ;-)
ReplyDeletePeace ... Wade
Hi Evan,
ReplyDeleteThe Shirky book is really good. I had already read it and had it on my bookshelf when I registered for this class last year. I was very happy to already own a required course text.
I think your goal for the class is a good one. You may find yourself drawn to some tools too. I'm looking forward to reading your blog during the class.
I like your goal as well. I think it's a good one and definitely aligned with the course experiences.
ReplyDeleteEvan,
ReplyDeleteCouldn't agree more. In some ways, I think what I learn here will be at least a self-defense mechanism for what my young children will undoubtedly bring home in the next few years (they're 7 and 4 now). I'm also very eager to understand how this technology can be used to make organizations more efficient... it seems like its potential in that realm is largely overshadowed by the frivolous use, but as Shirky said, it may take a generation to really see the benefit of these tools.
Looking forward to this class!
Nicely said Evan. I look forward to reading more of your posts.
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