Without giving references to articles or websites, write five blog entries which creatively describe the digital technologically imbricated world (or not) of:
a) The oldest digital native you know.
The oldest digital native i know is my mother. She has been able to learn how to use the internet by using it to research holidays and buying things online a well as using email. Email is important to her for work, so it was compulsary she learnt how to use it. However surfing the web she learnt rather quickly and she still seems to be well adapt to most things available online, but it is obvious she does not know the boundaries on the internet and she can often get confused, or lost. Therefore, although this make make her more of an immigrant, i beleive she is comfortable on the internet and can do most things available to her.
b) The youngest digital immigrant you know.
The youngest digital immigrant i know would be my sister. She only really uses the internet for facebook, and she doesn't even understand most of the applications on that. Her web surfing abilities are very limited, as she cannot shop online, or know what websites are the best for what she's looking for. Nvertheless i do not think she is totally inept to use the internet, she does get by, and although she may be confused, she does manage to find what she is looking for most of the time.
c) A person known to you (could be you, but you don't need to admit it!) who most threatens the notion of native/immigrant in digital culture.
My Uncle, who, thinking about it, should have been the oldest digital native i know, as he is very accomplished when using the internet and most modern technological equipment available in the current climate of the digital age. He has really enjoyed following the growth of the digital era, and his skills have developed and changed with it. He has been responsible for teaching my how family how to use a computer and the internet, showing his extended and polished skills when it comes to anything 'new'. He gets all the gadgets as soon as they are available and just teaches himslef how to use them, proving how he loves the progression of technology.
d) Describe the daily frustrations of a fictional neo-luddite at university now in the UK.
A neo-luddite is a sort of political movement, who are against the progression of technology and the digital age that is occuring today. Their main points against the changes to our world include: dehumanisation, increase in government control, health problems, cruelty to animals and nuclear war. Some of these risks are quite 'out there' but health risks and government control are important to be aware of, as no one is doing as much exercise as they use to (couch potato culture) and the government is able to influence the internet, thus influencing public opinion.
A neo-luddite at university would really struggle, because the internet is constantly used to: communicate, share files, post information and complete work. It shows how important the internet is when at university, most of us would struggle to cope without it. Therefore it is evident that a neo luddite would probably end up pulling their hair out if they attended a university in the UK.
e) Describe the experience of a fictional technophile student in 2020.
A technophile is the opposite of a neo-luddite, and has many similar characteristics to my uncle i mentioned earlier. A technophile is someone who is very excited and supportive of the new age developing digital age, managing to adapt to change and learn all the new applications quickly and succinctly, enjoying it at the same time.
In 2020, with the expected web 3.0 plan, i imagine a technophile would be in their element, taking advantage of all the possible features available to them when working at university.
www.wikipedia.co.uk
Friday, 27 March 2009
Tuesday, 24 March 2009
Week 9/10 - Q5&6
What is the 'semantic web'? How does it differ from web 3.0?
The semantic web is an extra feature to the world wide web, which is used to define a web search allowing to satisfy all the users requests. The semantic web is very technological and very clever, as it works by providing information that is understood by computers, so it takes some of the hardwork away from humans when searching and sharing information on the internet.
Web 3.0 is the internet design and plan people in the Silicon valley are working on for 2020. It is similar to the semantic web, as its main feature will be doing most of the work for users, making website suggestions when writing an email. It will be able to understand what users are writing and the main theme of the email, making suggestions for articles on the same subject. Nova Spivach is the evangalist for the next phase development, and she actually names web 3.0 and the semantic web as the same thing.
http://technology.timesonline.co.uk/tol/news/tech_and_web/the_web/article2726190.ece
The semantic web is an extra feature to the world wide web, which is used to define a web search allowing to satisfy all the users requests. The semantic web is very technological and very clever, as it works by providing information that is understood by computers, so it takes some of the hardwork away from humans when searching and sharing information on the internet.
Web 3.0 is the internet design and plan people in the Silicon valley are working on for 2020. It is similar to the semantic web, as its main feature will be doing most of the work for users, making website suggestions when writing an email. It will be able to understand what users are writing and the main theme of the email, making suggestions for articles on the same subject. Nova Spivach is the evangalist for the next phase development, and she actually names web 3.0 and the semantic web as the same thing.
http://technology.timesonline.co.uk/tol/news/tech_and_web/the_web/article2726190.ece
Monday, 23 March 2009
Week 9/10 - Q4
Is there a potential problem being stored up for people if 'education' is tailored to fit into their cultural and personal preferences?
This would be a major problem due to the fact that people do not know what kind of learning techniques they are best suited to until they have experienced all of them. For example, some people learn from reading, or from observation or from what they hear. I believe that different subjects are best taught in different ways, using different teaching methods, such as english is best taught by reading. Therefore i do not think education should be tailored to fit personal preferences, as i don't believe everyone knows what is best suited to them.
However, some schools may not be able to offer tools, such as the internet, or top sports facilities, that help benefit a students education, therefore some are getting a better opportunity than others. This shows that culture play a big part in education, as Bruner states, "culture shapes minds", so peoples future education is set up for them as soon as they are put into a certain community. As a result it shows that education is part of someones culture, not the other way around, so it cannot be a problem, as it will never change, because someones culture cannot change.
Bruner, J.S. (1997) The Culture of Education, London: Harvard University Press.
This would be a major problem due to the fact that people do not know what kind of learning techniques they are best suited to until they have experienced all of them. For example, some people learn from reading, or from observation or from what they hear. I believe that different subjects are best taught in different ways, using different teaching methods, such as english is best taught by reading. Therefore i do not think education should be tailored to fit personal preferences, as i don't believe everyone knows what is best suited to them.
However, some schools may not be able to offer tools, such as the internet, or top sports facilities, that help benefit a students education, therefore some are getting a better opportunity than others. This shows that culture play a big part in education, as Bruner states, "culture shapes minds", so peoples future education is set up for them as soon as they are put into a certain community. As a result it shows that education is part of someones culture, not the other way around, so it cannot be a problem, as it will never change, because someones culture cannot change.
Bruner, J.S. (1997) The Culture of Education, London: Harvard University Press.
Week 9/10 - Q3
Should education 'stretch a person do you think? (What do you mean by 'stretch'?)
My interpretation of stretching a person, when it comes to education, is getting the most out of someone that it possible, using motivation, knowledge and social interaction so that a person can achieve the best to their ability, or even further. I do believe education should stretch a person, because they should be able to get everything in life they can, and be privilidged to do whatever they want to do in life.
Nevertheless i do not think students should be pushed or have education piled upon them constantly, otherwise it could have a damaging affect on them, as it would put them off learning forever.
Education should stretch a person by using all possible forms of teaching techniques, so people know how they learn best. Also motivation from parents and teachers and peers helps to create a nice atmosphere in which learning becomes possible. As well as this teaching tools, and variation is key to help learning, like computers and the internet, and going out side and observing the real world.
My interpretation of stretching a person, when it comes to education, is getting the most out of someone that it possible, using motivation, knowledge and social interaction so that a person can achieve the best to their ability, or even further. I do believe education should stretch a person, because they should be able to get everything in life they can, and be privilidged to do whatever they want to do in life.
Nevertheless i do not think students should be pushed or have education piled upon them constantly, otherwise it could have a damaging affect on them, as it would put them off learning forever.
Education should stretch a person by using all possible forms of teaching techniques, so people know how they learn best. Also motivation from parents and teachers and peers helps to create a nice atmosphere in which learning becomes possible. As well as this teaching tools, and variation is key to help learning, like computers and the internet, and going out side and observing the real world.
Sunday, 22 March 2009
Week 9/10 - Q2
What difference to all this might the 'digital divide' make? a) To socioeconomically related access issues within a society? b) To global access issues across countries and regions?
The digital divide is the gap between people who benefit from the development of the media and technology, compared to those being left in the dark and lost in this digital age. Digital divide researchers have stated that it is the fact that middle - upper class have access to digital technology, whereas the poor are ignored because they cannot afford the luxuries, like broadband, or an ipod. Even if the poor do get access, it is normally very low in standards, compared to what others have, therefore they do not get the full experience and the maximum amount of knowledge needed. This just shows that socioeconomically, society suffers, because the divide just increases, less priviledged families get left behind, without the knowledge and experiences that digital technology provides. We are in the digital age, so if people cannot cope or afford to change and develop with the progressing technological world then society will just spread further apart and the economy slowly colloapse.
On a global scale it has been suggested that the digital divide has caused terrorism. This is due to the fact that religions have felt left out, because they did not take part in the digital progression, so they felt undermined and alienated. Nevertheless continents like Asia, have actually caught up with Britain and the USA over the last ten years because of the dotcom bust in the late 1900's. This means that Asia have become one of the leading continents in the digital age, having created many wireless networks throughout, growing as a digital continent quickly and cheaply.
http://www.digitaldivide.org/dd/digitaldivide.html
The digital divide is the gap between people who benefit from the development of the media and technology, compared to those being left in the dark and lost in this digital age. Digital divide researchers have stated that it is the fact that middle - upper class have access to digital technology, whereas the poor are ignored because they cannot afford the luxuries, like broadband, or an ipod. Even if the poor do get access, it is normally very low in standards, compared to what others have, therefore they do not get the full experience and the maximum amount of knowledge needed. This just shows that socioeconomically, society suffers, because the divide just increases, less priviledged families get left behind, without the knowledge and experiences that digital technology provides. We are in the digital age, so if people cannot cope or afford to change and develop with the progressing technological world then society will just spread further apart and the economy slowly colloapse.
On a global scale it has been suggested that the digital divide has caused terrorism. This is due to the fact that religions have felt left out, because they did not take part in the digital progression, so they felt undermined and alienated. Nevertheless continents like Asia, have actually caught up with Britain and the USA over the last ten years because of the dotcom bust in the late 1900's. This means that Asia have become one of the leading continents in the digital age, having created many wireless networks throughout, growing as a digital continent quickly and cheaply.
http://www.digitaldivide.org/dd/digitaldivide.html
Week 9/10 - Q1
How might Wenger's notions on practice communities relate to Prensky's on education?
Recapping on Wenger's notions on Communities of Practise (CofP), he states that in our day to day running of our lives, there are people and a certain group of people that help us get through life, deal with issues and are always there to help, interacting daily with them. As a stated on a previous post, my CofP is my local football team, as i do not just interact with them on the field, they are my mentours and friends throughout the week, and every week, and help me deal with issues and problems i have.
These Communities of Practise relate to Prensky's ideas on education because he states that interaction is very important when learning, therefore communities of practice help develop knowledge, as you learn off others, and through other peoples experiences. However, as i have stated in 'Journal 4 and 5 abstracts', Prensky stated that game based learning, and learning tools are good sources for education, but how can this be in anyway interactive?
Recapping on Wenger's notions on Communities of Practise (CofP), he states that in our day to day running of our lives, there are people and a certain group of people that help us get through life, deal with issues and are always there to help, interacting daily with them. As a stated on a previous post, my CofP is my local football team, as i do not just interact with them on the field, they are my mentours and friends throughout the week, and every week, and help me deal with issues and problems i have.
These Communities of Practise relate to Prensky's ideas on education because he states that interaction is very important when learning, therefore communities of practice help develop knowledge, as you learn off others, and through other peoples experiences. However, as i have stated in 'Journal 4 and 5 abstracts', Prensky stated that game based learning, and learning tools are good sources for education, but how can this be in anyway interactive?
Thursday, 19 March 2009
Week 8 - Disagreements with journal aricles
Journal 1 - My main disagreement with journal one, is the fact that it is quite a short article, without much evidence of their own gathered by Bayne and Ross. It seems as though they have relied on previous articles to gain the information to prove their point and come to a conclusion, which is not neccesarily a wrong thing to do, however it is my only issue i had with it. It is also two years old, and i believe teaching methods and techniques have developed since then, therefore, maybe they would look at the issue from a different angle if they were to do it today. As well as this i am unsure if i agree that everyone needs to be at the same level, when it comes to dealing with computers, the interent and technology as a whole, because most adults do not even need to use it, although they will be at a disadvantage to most in the future.
Journal 2 - To an extent, i do understand what Livingstone is saying; that people should cope with the new media progression, as it is rapid and it will soon be impossible to catch up with it. However i believe that most people don't have a choice but to develop with new technology, as it occurs and knowledge increases quite naturally, because it is such a major influence in everyones day to day lives. As well as this i think that the changing media scene does effect the economy and politics etc. because of the new techniques and new ideas that enhance peoples lives and choices.
Journal 3 - This article has gone to a lot of trouble to actually gain its own qualitative data to prove the hypothesis, that girls attitudes and language is different and more risky when talking online compared with talking face to face with someone. Although the article is three years old, i do believe that the article makes a very good point, and is still relevant with todays society, as girls are still getting into difficult situations when talking on chat rooms, as they don't know who the other person is. Overall i think it is a very good article, and i do not really have any disagreements, as it is detailed, proven and succint.
Journal 4 - I do think that Prensky makes a good point in this article, however i do not believe that game based learning will ever take over classroom learning. This is because, although e - learning does have its advantages, it is not possible to be sociable enough, active or as productive, because of the limitations working on a computer has.
Journal 5 - Again, Prensky does highlight an issue that could come about in the future. Nevertheless i disagree with the fact that it is something that needs to be addressed, as i do not think it will be much of a problem, that younger generations will be able to gain more information through new media technology.
Journal 2 - To an extent, i do understand what Livingstone is saying; that people should cope with the new media progression, as it is rapid and it will soon be impossible to catch up with it. However i believe that most people don't have a choice but to develop with new technology, as it occurs and knowledge increases quite naturally, because it is such a major influence in everyones day to day lives. As well as this i think that the changing media scene does effect the economy and politics etc. because of the new techniques and new ideas that enhance peoples lives and choices.
Journal 3 - This article has gone to a lot of trouble to actually gain its own qualitative data to prove the hypothesis, that girls attitudes and language is different and more risky when talking online compared with talking face to face with someone. Although the article is three years old, i do believe that the article makes a very good point, and is still relevant with todays society, as girls are still getting into difficult situations when talking on chat rooms, as they don't know who the other person is. Overall i think it is a very good article, and i do not really have any disagreements, as it is detailed, proven and succint.
Journal 4 - I do think that Prensky makes a good point in this article, however i do not believe that game based learning will ever take over classroom learning. This is because, although e - learning does have its advantages, it is not possible to be sociable enough, active or as productive, because of the limitations working on a computer has.
Journal 5 - Again, Prensky does highlight an issue that could come about in the future. Nevertheless i disagree with the fact that it is something that needs to be addressed, as i do not think it will be much of a problem, that younger generations will be able to gain more information through new media technology.
Week 8 - Journal 5 abstract
In this article, whereas in the previous article, where Prensky outlines the advantages of gaming to help learning, he explains how 'tools' such as mobile phones, ipods and computers will encourage young people to learn more as they have more advanced materials to gain more knowledge. Therefore, Prensky believes this will create more of a divide between immigrants and natives that will continue to expand, as natives have more opportunities and materials available to them.
Wednesday, 18 March 2009
Week 8 - Journal 4 abstract
Similar to journal one, by Bayne and Ross, Prensky analyses the issue of learning in the classroom and how the teaching techniques are changing, developing game based learning. Prensky came up with this idea through the new e - learning system, discussing whether or not using gaming can be as effective or more effective than regular classroom lessons. Games can be more interesting and more fun, and this can encourage learning skills to develop. Therefore Prensky has explained how the new media scene can have a positive influence on the progression of education.
Week 8 - Journal 3 abstract
This article experiments how teenage girls talk and socialise on the internet, such as web forums, chatrooms and instant messaging compared to talking face to face with someone in real life. It mainly focuses on the issues of femininity and how teenage girls used the internet, and its exclusivity to experiment with gender roles and be more adventurous with their language and approach to certain conversations when on the internet. The article points out that results showed girls tend to be more defensive, shy and wary when talking to people face to face, whereas on the internet, they talk alot more about love interests and romance and take more risks. On the whole, the article does prove that teenage girls are likely to get into dangerous situations because of their belief of safety when on the internet, however this is why people get caught out and put at risk.
Tuesday, 17 March 2009
Week 8 - Journal 2 abstract
In this article Livingstone takes a look at how the new media scene is developing and what it is doing to influence society. She states that as long as media is gradually progressing and changing, people should not find it difficult to cope, as new media culture is not actually new! What Livingstone means by this, is that it is not as though society has been suddenly bombarded with loads of new forms of media and incredulous internet expansion, but it has been a slow progression, allowing everyone to develop their skill around it. Although it is quick and constant change, it does not change society, or the economy but challenges it.
Week 8 - journal 1 abstract
This article highlights the issue of whether or not teachers are able to teach younger, more developed digitally, students about the internet and the changing media environments. Bayne and Ross really delve into the issues surrounding the needs digital natives have when it comes to learning stating that children need and thrive technological approaches of teaching when they are being taught, as it keeps them interested and moving forward. They go on to explain that teachers are put in a difficult position, as they are caught in a discourse that means they can't keep on top of the traditional methods, as well as struggling to develop and change to try and fullfill the needs of the students. Overall a simple midway point is wanted to be achieved by Bayne and Ross, allowing a constant and simple progression available for everyone, no matter what age or race.
Week 8
In the Harvard manner, name five different academic articles dealing with the notion of young people's facility with the new world of converged media.
1.) Bayne, S and Ross, J (2007) “The ‘digital native’ and ‘digital immigrant’: a dangerous opposition”, Annual Conference of the Society for Research into Higher Education, University of Edinburgh http://www.malts.ed.ac.uk/staff/sian/natives_final.pdf [25/03/09]
2.) Livingstone, S (1999), ‘New Media, New Audience’, New Media and Society Vol.1 pg 59- 68, http://nms.sagepub.com/cgi/reprint/1/1/59 [26/03/09]
3.) Kelly, D et al. (2006), "No Boundaries? Girls’ Interactive, Online Learning About Femininity's" Youth and Society Vol 38, pg 3-28http://yas.sagepub.com/cgi/content/abstract/38/1/3 [25/03/09]
4.) Prensky, M (2005 )"Adopt and Adapt: Shaping Tech for the Classroom," Edutopia.
http://www.edutopia.org/adopt-and-adapt%5b13/03/2009 [25/03/2009]
Friday, 13 March 2009
Week 8/9
Website 3 - This website looks at digital immigration cards in Mexico, showing their desire to progress with continuing they have with immigration between them and the USA. This website seems very profesional as it has a search engine in the top left hand corner, a very detailed menu, lots of advertisements and a very succinct first page, outlining the many issues on the subject. The website is also used to post all sorts of articles on the economy and other issues, mainly to do with the USA.
When using evidence, such as quotes and statistics, the website uses a bullet point format to make it alot easier to read and understand. It is a very well researched article because of the amount of information it provides on the subject, making it very useful.
It is with no doubt a reliable source, because, as i have mentioned, the amount of detail it has, and also the fact it is regularly updated, due to the amounts of articles it posts frequently, and this particular article in 2008, therefore it is not that outdated.
I believe this to be a very good website, without question, the best out of the three so far, and i do not have any disagreements with it.
When using evidence, such as quotes and statistics, the website uses a bullet point format to make it alot easier to read and understand. It is a very well researched article because of the amount of information it provides on the subject, making it very useful.
It is with no doubt a reliable source, because, as i have mentioned, the amount of detail it has, and also the fact it is regularly updated, due to the amounts of articles it posts frequently, and this particular article in 2008, therefore it is not that outdated.
I believe this to be a very good website, without question, the best out of the three so far, and i do not have any disagreements with it.
Week 8/9
Website 2 - The second website i have chosen to analyse on digital immigration, discusses it from a business perspective for lawyers. It gives a brief description of what they do, and then describes why they are focusing on digital immigration. This allows the user to straight away, get to know what they are all about, as well as having a 'About us' section, making the user feel comfortable.
It is very factual, using alot of statistics and detailed explanations of the laws involving digital immigration. Similar to the other website it is very simple, using a table of ten sections to outline the rules and issues.
It seems very reliable because of the amount of detailed language it uses providing fact, which the user trusts because they are in a comfortable environment, due to the introductions.
However, i do have a disagreement with the layout, because it is rather scattered, and it is difficult to decide where to start. Also the language does prove to be quite difficult to understand, due to the amount of abreviations and statistics.
It is very factual, using alot of statistics and detailed explanations of the laws involving digital immigration. Similar to the other website it is very simple, using a table of ten sections to outline the rules and issues.
It seems very reliable because of the amount of detailed language it uses providing fact, which the user trusts because they are in a comfortable environment, due to the introductions.
However, i do have a disagreement with the layout, because it is rather scattered, and it is difficult to decide where to start. Also the language does prove to be quite difficult to understand, due to the amount of abreviations and statistics.
Week 8/9
Website one - The first website i found dealing with 'digital immigration' is very well layed out, making it really easy to use and find out the required information. It has a brief introduction at the begginning, discussing its main ideas about "new immigration" in America, which is then followed by a 'background' section, providing detailed dates and statistics about the movement of migrants into the USA.
The website has an extensive menu on the left hand side, with many options for the users, including multimedia options, teachers notes, visual learning and primary sources. This tells me it is very much in depth and provides the user with many options.
The website is very reliable because it states that has a copyright certificate and it is also updated regularly, as when i checked it, it has last been updated on the 13th of March 2009.
My only disagreement with this article is the fact that it seems rather old fashioned, although it is very well up to date, just things like the plain, normal font, the simplicity of the whole set up of the page is also very boring, making it hard to keep focused.
The website has an extensive menu on the left hand side, with many options for the users, including multimedia options, teachers notes, visual learning and primary sources. This tells me it is very much in depth and provides the user with many options.
The website is very reliable because it states that has a copyright certificate and it is also updated regularly, as when i checked it, it has last been updated on the 13th of March 2009.
My only disagreement with this article is the fact that it seems rather old fashioned, although it is very well up to date, just things like the plain, normal font, the simplicity of the whole set up of the page is also very boring, making it hard to keep focused.
Week 8
Website 4
The fourth website i found focuses on the opportunities available to digital natives, via the internet and other aspects of the new media age. It is very well formatted and up to date as it looks very professional and it is simple to use. It uses many digital images and graphics to entertain and keep the user interested relating to the subject in hand, the rise and possibilities of the internet.
The only disagreement i would have with it, is that it is not very detailed, and does not provide the user with a lot f accountable evidence that can be used to much effect.
Website 5
The final website i analysed was slightly more in depth than the others, and asked the question whether or nor digital natives should learn the old methods, or digital immigrants should learn the new techniques and get up to date with the new media age.
The website itself is not up to date, and therefore cannot be taken into consideration when discussing 'current affairs' as well as not being able to identify with the new recent changes with the internet. Nevertheless it is very detailed and provides the user with a lot of information and key points on the comparison between digital immigrants and digital natives.
Week 8
What is Digital immigration?
A digital immigrant is usually someone over the age of 28. This is becuase they missed out on the digital age when they were younger, so it has taken them longer to develop their skills for using the internet. They usually can access the internet, but at times find themselves lost when they get to certain pages, as they've clicked on them accidentally.
The counterpart of a digital immigrant is a digital native, and that is someone who is very up to date with the technological world and the ever changing media.
http://www.urbandictionary.com/define.php?term=digital+immigrant
5 websites discussing Digital immigration.
1.) http://www.digitalhistory.uh.edu/modules/immigration/index.cfm
2.) http://www.digitalimmigrationlawgroup.com/
3.) http://news.newamericamedia.org/news/view_article.html?article_id=083e0b4728d31cd23a57533cf02c46c5
4.) http://www.digitalnative.org/
5.) http://www.marcprensky.com/writing/Prensky%20-%20Digital%2...mmigrants%20-%20Part1.pdf
The search engine i used to research digital immigration was www.alltheweb.com and it was very detailed nad came up with many pages of results.
Wednesday, 4 March 2009
Week 7 - Distance learning in China
The information for this post has been collected from an online article by Zhao Yuhui and i will be analysing and discussing some of the main ideas developed throughout the article, 'China: Its Distance Higher-Education System'.
I find it intriguing that China developed distance learning, using televisions, in the early 1960's and then introduced television universities (TVU's). To me, this seems very early, and i believe the Chinese educational system took a risk in creating these learning facilities. Nevertheless it seems as though the learning technique works as the article provides evidence of the amount of students that have gained degrees from them, " During the period from 1960 to 1966, more than 8,000 students graduated from the Beijing Television University and over 50,000 students finished single-course studies through its teaching programmes." Therefore it has been successful and obviously worked in the early years of its introduction.
"The enrolment of these radio and television universities over the last eight years has totalled 1,291,833, and 590,941 students have graduated. The number of registered students in 1986 was 604,437 constituting one-third of the country's higher-education institute students." This shows that only less than half of the students who enrolled in these TVU's graduated, which is a very low percentage, proving that many students obviously find it difficult to connect with a screen or monitor, i think i would definately struggle to keep engaged and focused. It is also the fact that these TVU's are taking up one third of the countries educational system, which is too much, considering not everyone can connect with the process. However there is the point that Yuhui makes, stating that these universities needed fewer funds, and so more money could be used for staff training and other resources.
The TVU's educational system consists of five levels "corresponding to the organization of China's system of national and regional governments". It just shows the seriousness and amount of work that has gone into creating and sustaining this method of learning. The five levels succinctly define the terms and methods of learning that must be done and the guides for teaching them. I believe this outlines the positive future the Chinese educational board believe this method of teaching has.
The fact that technology is always developing and the new media scene is now occuring, it is apparent that this teaching method must be expanding and increasing its opportunities. This is proven through the increase in graduates and the amount of courses available, "Enrolled all-subject students have totalled over 1 million, and all-subject graduates have amounted to more than 500,000.","By 1990, about sixty new types of multi-media course will be developed." It is astounding the speed of the growth of TVU's and the standards are always improving as well.
Therefore, it is evident that the method of TVU's dived in at the deep end far too early, and many students suffered because of this, however this growth of resources and technology available, i think it is a great idea and has been very successful, and will only get better.
http://www1.worldbank.org/disted/Technology/broadcast/tv-02.html
I find it intriguing that China developed distance learning, using televisions, in the early 1960's and then introduced television universities (TVU's). To me, this seems very early, and i believe the Chinese educational system took a risk in creating these learning facilities. Nevertheless it seems as though the learning technique works as the article provides evidence of the amount of students that have gained degrees from them, " During the period from 1960 to 1966, more than 8,000 students graduated from the Beijing Television University and over 50,000 students finished single-course studies through its teaching programmes." Therefore it has been successful and obviously worked in the early years of its introduction.
"The enrolment of these radio and television universities over the last eight years has totalled 1,291,833, and 590,941 students have graduated. The number of registered students in 1986 was 604,437 constituting one-third of the country's higher-education institute students." This shows that only less than half of the students who enrolled in these TVU's graduated, which is a very low percentage, proving that many students obviously find it difficult to connect with a screen or monitor, i think i would definately struggle to keep engaged and focused. It is also the fact that these TVU's are taking up one third of the countries educational system, which is too much, considering not everyone can connect with the process. However there is the point that Yuhui makes, stating that these universities needed fewer funds, and so more money could be used for staff training and other resources.
The TVU's educational system consists of five levels "corresponding to the organization of China's system of national and regional governments". It just shows the seriousness and amount of work that has gone into creating and sustaining this method of learning. The five levels succinctly define the terms and methods of learning that must be done and the guides for teaching them. I believe this outlines the positive future the Chinese educational board believe this method of teaching has.
The fact that technology is always developing and the new media scene is now occuring, it is apparent that this teaching method must be expanding and increasing its opportunities. This is proven through the increase in graduates and the amount of courses available, "Enrolled all-subject students have totalled over 1 million, and all-subject graduates have amounted to more than 500,000.","By 1990, about sixty new types of multi-media course will be developed." It is astounding the speed of the growth of TVU's and the standards are always improving as well.
Therefore, it is evident that the method of TVU's dived in at the deep end far too early, and many students suffered because of this, however this growth of resources and technology available, i think it is a great idea and has been very successful, and will only get better.
http://www1.worldbank.org/disted/Technology/broadcast/tv-02.html
Thursday, 26 February 2009
Week 6 - Website analysis
The website i have chosen to analyse is http://www.skysports.com/, which has been around since July 1998. I have decided to analyse this website because i use it everyday because it is the quickest and most reliable site to get scores, results and information frequently updated on any sport.
It uses a very simple navigation system, providing the information for the reader in an easy to read format. The homepage is full of text, images and videos, however it is all layed out neatly, using a similar structure to a newspaper, making it familiar. It has the main story with a big picture in the top left of the page, main headlines to the right of that and then other stories, polls, scores and other links below them. It has a stylish sheet menu on the top on the page so you always know where you are and a search bar so anything can be located quickly. The homepage allwos the user to quickly browse over the page and know everything important that has happened throughout the day, without clicking on anything, very simple usage.
It includes an accessibility statement, help and FAQ's as well as contact information, therefore it can be trusted as being a well develped and a highly regarded website, as well as being very popular and very well known. It also has a privacy statement, so when i'm on it, or post a message in the forum, i feel safe. In addition it has a copyright notice and a terms and conditions notice, reassuring me that i am on a secure website with all the correct standard features.
As Lister points out, interactivity a very important commodity to a website and skysports.com is full of opportunities to get involved, as it provides forums to discuss the hot issues, blogs that anyone can post, emailing and even podcasting. Therefore it is very up to date with the 'new media' scene, providing something for everyone, allowing communication, discussions and opinion polls. This creates massive amounts of feedback for the website, providing users with the possibilty to have their say and get involved making it sociobly interactive. It is even possible to watch skysports live and even bet online on the current events.
Nevertheless, it is not this vast amount of interactivity and feedback options that appeal to me; it is the amount of information i can view and find out in such a short amount of time, that is updated as soon as they get the information, with very high standards of grammar and vocabulary. It is also so in tune with todays culture because at least every other person is interested in sport, and this website has all the information with all the gadgets, developing and changing in tandem with the new media scene.
Lister et al. (2003) New Media: A Critical Introduction, London: Routledge
It uses a very simple navigation system, providing the information for the reader in an easy to read format. The homepage is full of text, images and videos, however it is all layed out neatly, using a similar structure to a newspaper, making it familiar. It has the main story with a big picture in the top left of the page, main headlines to the right of that and then other stories, polls, scores and other links below them. It has a stylish sheet menu on the top on the page so you always know where you are and a search bar so anything can be located quickly. The homepage allwos the user to quickly browse over the page and know everything important that has happened throughout the day, without clicking on anything, very simple usage.
It includes an accessibility statement, help and FAQ's as well as contact information, therefore it can be trusted as being a well develped and a highly regarded website, as well as being very popular and very well known. It also has a privacy statement, so when i'm on it, or post a message in the forum, i feel safe. In addition it has a copyright notice and a terms and conditions notice, reassuring me that i am on a secure website with all the correct standard features.
As Lister points out, interactivity a very important commodity to a website and skysports.com is full of opportunities to get involved, as it provides forums to discuss the hot issues, blogs that anyone can post, emailing and even podcasting. Therefore it is very up to date with the 'new media' scene, providing something for everyone, allowing communication, discussions and opinion polls. This creates massive amounts of feedback for the website, providing users with the possibilty to have their say and get involved making it sociobly interactive. It is even possible to watch skysports live and even bet online on the current events.
Nevertheless, it is not this vast amount of interactivity and feedback options that appeal to me; it is the amount of information i can view and find out in such a short amount of time, that is updated as soon as they get the information, with very high standards of grammar and vocabulary. It is also so in tune with todays culture because at least every other person is interested in sport, and this website has all the information with all the gadgets, developing and changing in tandem with the new media scene.
Lister et al. (2003) New Media: A Critical Introduction, London: Routledge
Week 6 tasks
What is a Community of Practice?
A Community of Practice (CofP), as Wenger states, is a group of people you feel most comfortable with to share concerns and difficulties, to figure them out and reslove them through day to day interactions (Wenger, 2003). These communities can be developed in businesses, schools, sports teams and bands etc. One CofP i belong to (as i have mentioned on the forum) is the local football team i play for at home, Inkberrow FC. It is a very close nit team, and socially it is brilliant. All the team members get on very well and we all get together after the game and interact off the field, usually by going to the pub! It has become a valuble commodity for me as it takes up my whole weekend, playing on a saturday and sunday and then socialising with everyone in the evenings. i believe it has made me mature as a person, because i am constantly communicating with people far older than me, and it has also provided me with some of my best memories.
Wenger states "These 'communities of practice' are mostly informal and distinct from organizational units" What do you think Wenger means by an "organizational unit"?
An "organisational unit" is the group or business surrounding the CofP(s), as they provide the opportunity for CofP's to be created, but they do not interlink with eachother. CofP's are much more personal and there are not any boundaries that exist and no one in charge. CofP's are "defined by knowledge, not by tasks" (Wenger, 2003) so it is people who come together that have things in common. Wenger puts it into a very simple format:
"People belong to communities of practice at the same time as they belong to other organizational structures. In their business units, they shape the organization. In their teams, they take care of projects. In their networks, they form relationships. And in their communities of practice, they develop the knowledge that lets them do these other tasks."
Therefore it is a process that creates these CofP allowing relationships to develop.
A Community of Practice (CofP), as Wenger states, is a group of people you feel most comfortable with to share concerns and difficulties, to figure them out and reslove them through day to day interactions (Wenger, 2003). These communities can be developed in businesses, schools, sports teams and bands etc. One CofP i belong to (as i have mentioned on the forum) is the local football team i play for at home, Inkberrow FC. It is a very close nit team, and socially it is brilliant. All the team members get on very well and we all get together after the game and interact off the field, usually by going to the pub! It has become a valuble commodity for me as it takes up my whole weekend, playing on a saturday and sunday and then socialising with everyone in the evenings. i believe it has made me mature as a person, because i am constantly communicating with people far older than me, and it has also provided me with some of my best memories.
Wenger states "These 'communities of practice' are mostly informal and distinct from organizational units" What do you think Wenger means by an "organizational unit"?
An "organisational unit" is the group or business surrounding the CofP(s), as they provide the opportunity for CofP's to be created, but they do not interlink with eachother. CofP's are much more personal and there are not any boundaries that exist and no one in charge. CofP's are "defined by knowledge, not by tasks" (Wenger, 2003) so it is people who come together that have things in common. Wenger puts it into a very simple format:
"People belong to communities of practice at the same time as they belong to other organizational structures. In their business units, they shape the organization. In their teams, they take care of projects. In their networks, they form relationships. And in their communities of practice, they develop the knowledge that lets them do these other tasks."
Therefore it is a process that creates these CofP allowing relationships to develop.
Thursday, 12 February 2009
Week 3 - Topic 2 Web Forums
A) Is withholding one’s identity ethically wrong?
It is obvious not to give your name and address out on the internet etc., but there is also the issue of pretending to be someone you are not. I do not believe it is that much of a problem, as long as there are boundaries, because i believe for some people it gives them the chance to be someone they are not, create a different character to an extent giving them more confidence to comment and interact with others. It allows a sort of escapism from their usual self, acting differently, an internet ID it could be called, because in a real life study group, some people may not contribute as they'd like and say what they want. It opens up opportunities to show different aspects of thinking and saying things. At times, if you say you are older, or have achieved things you havn't, you will get more respect in the forums, however there are limits to how far you go to changing your identity, such as stereotyping or taking the mickey out someone else or using your moulded identity to put across untolerable views.
B.) Should we always use our full name?
Similarly to the previous question, it is a matter of choice, that is the brilliance with the internet, you can be who you like, but again there a the limits of putting one of your mates full names and pretending to be a right idiot. Sometimes the best option is to use a nickname, as i don't really like putting my whole name on, it seems rather formal, i think it's better to be a bit more adventurous and playful.
C.) Far from adopting a ‘mask’, isn’t one appeal of the Net that you can express your true self among like minds?
This is a definate positive that web forums offer, as i was saying before, web forums give people the confidence to speak out in a group, due to there not being as much pressure compared to a seminar group or similar. Poeoples true feelings are expressed creating more of an argument and passion, which is shown as there is no fear of being shown up and it is subject specific to what you're interested in.
D.) What kinds of risk are involved in online self-expression? Online relationships?
It is often the case that characters collide whilst online, plainly because people have complete opposing opinions. Therefore when someone comes out with a rash statement, the believe to be true, others can find this offensive, and it gives that person a bad name. Therefore at times it is best to keep some views and attitudes on a piece of paper, rather than a forum. Online relationships are dangerous to get into, because that question of identity is asked once again, and no one can be sure who they are talking to. Also if two people get on well on the internet, doesn't mean they will get on in real life.
E.) If you are participating in online social interaction might you shape your identity and expression to ‘fit’ that group?
I beleive a person would have to shape their identity to have involvement in the discussion. This is because you would not be taken seriously and would get no respect in the first place. However this begs the question, why would you want to have social interation with a group you have nothing in common with? Wouldn't it be boring and unbeneficial, unless you were just having fun developing your own characters!
F.) If you are a ‘digital presence’ how can you be manipulated by others?
A person could easily get your attention and brainwash you by just saying he is somekind of genius. The media today is constantly manipulating people into believing things, and it is the same on forums, it is easy to be drawn into something someone tells you.
Lister et al. (2003) New Media: A Critical Introduction, London: Routledge.
It is obvious not to give your name and address out on the internet etc., but there is also the issue of pretending to be someone you are not. I do not believe it is that much of a problem, as long as there are boundaries, because i believe for some people it gives them the chance to be someone they are not, create a different character to an extent giving them more confidence to comment and interact with others. It allows a sort of escapism from their usual self, acting differently, an internet ID it could be called, because in a real life study group, some people may not contribute as they'd like and say what they want. It opens up opportunities to show different aspects of thinking and saying things. At times, if you say you are older, or have achieved things you havn't, you will get more respect in the forums, however there are limits to how far you go to changing your identity, such as stereotyping or taking the mickey out someone else or using your moulded identity to put across untolerable views.
B.) Should we always use our full name?
Similarly to the previous question, it is a matter of choice, that is the brilliance with the internet, you can be who you like, but again there a the limits of putting one of your mates full names and pretending to be a right idiot. Sometimes the best option is to use a nickname, as i don't really like putting my whole name on, it seems rather formal, i think it's better to be a bit more adventurous and playful.
C.) Far from adopting a ‘mask’, isn’t one appeal of the Net that you can express your true self among like minds?
This is a definate positive that web forums offer, as i was saying before, web forums give people the confidence to speak out in a group, due to there not being as much pressure compared to a seminar group or similar. Poeoples true feelings are expressed creating more of an argument and passion, which is shown as there is no fear of being shown up and it is subject specific to what you're interested in.
D.) What kinds of risk are involved in online self-expression? Online relationships?
It is often the case that characters collide whilst online, plainly because people have complete opposing opinions. Therefore when someone comes out with a rash statement, the believe to be true, others can find this offensive, and it gives that person a bad name. Therefore at times it is best to keep some views and attitudes on a piece of paper, rather than a forum. Online relationships are dangerous to get into, because that question of identity is asked once again, and no one can be sure who they are talking to. Also if two people get on well on the internet, doesn't mean they will get on in real life.
E.) If you are participating in online social interaction might you shape your identity and expression to ‘fit’ that group?
I beleive a person would have to shape their identity to have involvement in the discussion. This is because you would not be taken seriously and would get no respect in the first place. However this begs the question, why would you want to have social interation with a group you have nothing in common with? Wouldn't it be boring and unbeneficial, unless you were just having fun developing your own characters!
F.) If you are a ‘digital presence’ how can you be manipulated by others?
A person could easily get your attention and brainwash you by just saying he is somekind of genius. The media today is constantly manipulating people into believing things, and it is the same on forums, it is easy to be drawn into something someone tells you.
Lister et al. (2003) New Media: A Critical Introduction, London: Routledge.
Week 3 - Topic 1
E) Are online relationships the same as offline ones?
No! It is ridiculous to presume that you could have a relationship with someone you just chat to using just text based communication system. I believe this because the same old issue always pops up, online personas and real identity, can the person on the other end be trusted.
On the other hand, this question does throw up alot of different situations, such as have the two people ever met before? Is it a relationship between two friends, or more than that? Is it going to develop into anything else? All of these questions develop a different approach as there are so many responces and outcomes that can occur, it is difficult to come to a defined conclusion. Nevertheless, mine is just an opinion, and i believe online relationships could never feel the same, or have the same successful outcome as an offline one.
No! It is ridiculous to presume that you could have a relationship with someone you just chat to using just text based communication system. I believe this because the same old issue always pops up, online personas and real identity, can the person on the other end be trusted.
On the other hand, this question does throw up alot of different situations, such as have the two people ever met before? Is it a relationship between two friends, or more than that? Is it going to develop into anything else? All of these questions develop a different approach as there are so many responces and outcomes that can occur, it is difficult to come to a defined conclusion. Nevertheless, mine is just an opinion, and i believe online relationships could never feel the same, or have the same successful outcome as an offline one.
Week 2
Qb) According to Lister et al., some commentators stress the ‘newness’ of new media, but others (such as Kevin Robins) can be seen to be saying that nothing fundamental has changed, because new media technology is another product of capitalism, and therefore will fit into and serve a pre-existing capitalist society and culture, rather than transform it in any fundamental sense. Any thoughts? Can we critique this position?
There is a valid point put across in Lister et al., arguing against new media, saying that it is a product of Capitalsim because the government and others around media do have a massive influence on what goes on. However it is apparent that, although we do live in a capitalist society, i believe new media would have developed exactly the same if it were a different circumstance. i also believe it has transformed culture, just as much as the telephone has, as it is constant change, constant improvements and constant communication within the culture of new media, such as blogging! No one can control what we say on our blogs (to an extent), therefore how can it be a product of capitalism?
There is a valid point put across in Lister et al., arguing against new media, saying that it is a product of Capitalsim because the government and others around media do have a massive influence on what goes on. However it is apparent that, although we do live in a capitalist society, i believe new media would have developed exactly the same if it were a different circumstance. i also believe it has transformed culture, just as much as the telephone has, as it is constant change, constant improvements and constant communication within the culture of new media, such as blogging! No one can control what we say on our blogs (to an extent), therefore how can it be a product of capitalism?
Week 2
Qa) With Windows Vista replacing XP and Office 2007 replacing Office 2003, (and so on), what is ‘upgrade culture’ all about? Is some new media change just consumerism thought up by big business?
As a company as a whole Windows continually has to think up new ideas to make money and to attract people to buy there products and software. In addition, it is also about expanding the limits of software and making it look better, feel better and work better with new programs and more things to do. In my opinion i do not see much difference between XP and Vista, or Office 2003 and 2007, however 'upgrade culture' is all about change and contantly looking for improvments, even if they are of the smallest variety, such as a new type of font has been added, or a new desktop background. Therefore if these small changes are continually made throughout windows history, in twenty years or so there will be a massive contrast compared to now. I believe 'upgrade culture' is a system that improves the way of life for both the consumer and the big companies, we all get something out of it!
As a company as a whole Windows continually has to think up new ideas to make money and to attract people to buy there products and software. In addition, it is also about expanding the limits of software and making it look better, feel better and work better with new programs and more things to do. In my opinion i do not see much difference between XP and Vista, or Office 2003 and 2007, however 'upgrade culture' is all about change and contantly looking for improvments, even if they are of the smallest variety, such as a new type of font has been added, or a new desktop background. Therefore if these small changes are continually made throughout windows history, in twenty years or so there will be a massive contrast compared to now. I believe 'upgrade culture' is a system that improves the way of life for both the consumer and the big companies, we all get something out of it!
Friday, 30 January 2009
Task 2b - Goebbels Speech about radio.
A speech by Nazi politician Joseph Goebbels about radio: http://www.calvin.edu/academic/cas/gpa/goeb56.htm
How is Goebbel’s view of radio linked to a political ideology? Why does he identify certain kind of communications potential in the medium?
How might his views seem to people today? What is radio ‘good for’ in your opinion?
How is Goebbel’s view of radio linked to a political ideology? Why does he identify certain kind of communications potential in the medium?
How might his views seem to people today? What is radio ‘good for’ in your opinion?
Goebbel's, being in charge of propaganda for the Nazi party during Hitler's reign, saw a great opportunity in radio to bring the country together as a whole and influence the people in supporting the war and the Nazi party. I believe he also saw it as a way of manipulating the people of Germany into thinking the war was a good idea and their policies were correct. This idea would have worked, because of the fact the radio was a new source of technology, therefore people believed what was being said, showing the power of the radio. People would have beleived what was being said because of the domineering and interlectual voice coming out of the radio, no one would question it. It is obvious that Goebbells was passionate about the media and the development of technology, as his ideas were able to be spread across the country like wildfire, gaining support and respect. There is also the aspect of using radio to communicate and contact pilots and others fighting in the war, allowing updates on the situation in the war progress. This proves to be a great asset as it gives a picture of what is going on elsewhere as soon as it happens. Goebbell's views are very much to do with the war and what is going on at that present time, however he does look to the future, and even the possibilities of technology to come. Therefore i believe he would be very interested in the media today and all the levels and opportunities it has, however his views and ideas at times would be far too political for the radio and media. People today would view Goebbell's thoughts as intense and overpowering and maybe just too strong and involved in something like the radio, although it was a piece of genius.
In my opinion radio is good for one thing, listening to music, either when i'm in the car or at work, as it is the only time i use the radio because it just keeps me going and keeps me entertained.
Task 2a - How might our views on new media depend on our previous knowledge, values and attitudes, and even ideologies?
The New Media scene is just a result of the rise and evolution of technology and the internet. There are so many options and opportunities available within media, as the subject is so vast, it is only expected for a 'new media' to be constantly developing.
I believe that i have grown up with all aspects of new media around me, and i have developed my skills to be compatable with the ever changing technological world. Beginning with games consoles, then computers, mobile phones, the internet, mp3's, podcasting and many more to come in the future; that i am sure of. Therefore new media has developed to fullfill our needs and our expectations, we need to learn and have better and newer forms of entertainment to keep us inspired.
I believe that i have grown up with all aspects of new media around me, and i have developed my skills to be compatable with the ever changing technological world. Beginning with games consoles, then computers, mobile phones, the internet, mp3's, podcasting and many more to come in the future; that i am sure of. Therefore new media has developed to fullfill our needs and our expectations, we need to learn and have better and newer forms of entertainment to keep us inspired.
Wednesday, 28 January 2009
Task 1 - Websites
A website is viewed using the internet, through a collection of text web pages, images, and videos hosted by web servers. A web page is just an online document made accessible to people through HTTP, a protocol that provides information for the users web browser, transferred from the web server, usually written in HTML (Hyper Text Markup Language). A website usually has many pages and many links on the homepage, such as hyperlinks, message boards and advertisements. The two main types of website are static, the classic, brochure type website and dynamic, where the website constantly changes based on certain criteria.
It is very easy to surf the web for hours, as there are so many different websites and links available, usually produced by organizations for commercialisation, just one person for personal reasons, or the government for any reason. I use websites everyday, usually for information on sport, or novels or just for entertainment if i'm bored.
It is very easy to surf the web for hours, as there are so many different websites and links available, usually produced by organizations for commercialisation, just one person for personal reasons, or the government for any reason. I use websites everyday, usually for information on sport, or novels or just for entertainment if i'm bored.
Task 1 - MUDs + MOOs – merging with online gaming
MUD's (Multi user-dungeons) are virtual worlds people join and interact in. They are elements of role playing, online chat and interactive fiction, described and set out using text only. Therefore poeple can describe themselves, or a room they are in, an object and actions that are performerd in the virtual world. Most worlds are science fiction, creating monsters and dragons and fighting against other people, completing levels and training their character up, still whilst interacting with other game players. These virtual worlds are now getting more and more realistic, sometimes creating realationships between two online characters, as well as the people in real life.
MOO's are basically the same thing as MUD's, however they allow users to actually change the games interface, creating more aspects to the game making it object orientated programming changing the way the game works for everyone using it.
I have no experience with MUD's or MOO's, however they do sound very interesting and enjoyable.
MOO's are basically the same thing as MUD's, however they allow users to actually change the games interface, creating more aspects to the game making it object orientated programming changing the way the game works for everyone using it.
I have no experience with MUD's or MOO's, however they do sound very interesting and enjoyable.
Task 1 - IRL’s, chat rooms and messenger services
IRL stands for Internet Relay Link and it is another form of digital online communication. It is a type of forum, as people login and primarily chat to groups of people, as well as having the opportunity to chat privately one on one with people. I do not use IRL's personally, however after researching them, i have found them to be a good way of getting to know people.
Chat rooms are similar to IRL's, but they are just big online forums that anyone can join and participate in. Chat rooms are mainly text based, although some have now implemented both text and voice simultaneously. It is a very informal way of communicating and sharing information, however many activities can be enjoyed in chatrooms such as webcam chat, online gaming and exchanging pictures. Again, i do not use chatrooms because i prefer knowing who i am talking to, as it could be anyone. Chat rooms have caused many problems, especially with people pretending to be who they are not and meeting with others they meet in chat rooms.
Messenger services, such as MSN, are very popular as they allow personal one on one discussions with the people you know. Messenger services let you set up a user name and create a online contact list of friends and family, allowing you to only speak to these people. You can also have group discussions with these contacts, as well as video messaging and file sharing.
I use MSN messenger regularly, as i find it very useful to chat to any of my friends anytime, anywhere. It is used more for personal satisfaction, rather than gaining information or organising events etc.
Chat rooms are similar to IRL's, but they are just big online forums that anyone can join and participate in. Chat rooms are mainly text based, although some have now implemented both text and voice simultaneously. It is a very informal way of communicating and sharing information, however many activities can be enjoyed in chatrooms such as webcam chat, online gaming and exchanging pictures. Again, i do not use chatrooms because i prefer knowing who i am talking to, as it could be anyone. Chat rooms have caused many problems, especially with people pretending to be who they are not and meeting with others they meet in chat rooms.
Messenger services, such as MSN, are very popular as they allow personal one on one discussions with the people you know. Messenger services let you set up a user name and create a online contact list of friends and family, allowing you to only speak to these people. You can also have group discussions with these contacts, as well as video messaging and file sharing.
I use MSN messenger regularly, as i find it very useful to chat to any of my friends anytime, anywhere. It is used more for personal satisfaction, rather than gaining information or organising events etc.
Tuesday, 27 January 2009
Task 1 - Bulletin board systems and Usenet
Bulletin board systems (BBS) were mainly used before the internet was made popular in the 1980's. It was used as a base for communications between geographically dispersed users who accessed the BBS over telephone lines, however it has been developed over the years allowing users to connect to BBS using a terminal program. It is used so people can download or upload software, such as local news, online games and instant messaging.
Bulletin board systems are simple to use as it is a case of setting up an user name and account and then just by logging in, everything is easily accesssible. I enjoy playing on the online games as there is so much available and you can speak to others whilst playing.
User and Network is combined to create Usenet, which is a internet discussion system. Users simply post and read articles in certain categories, called newsgroups. Usenet is basically a cross between email and web forums, using elements of BBS creating threaded discussions with news reader software and posts stored on the server.
Bulletin board systems are simple to use as it is a case of setting up an user name and account and then just by logging in, everything is easily accesssible. I enjoy playing on the online games as there is so much available and you can speak to others whilst playing.
User and Network is combined to create Usenet, which is a internet discussion system. Users simply post and read articles in certain categories, called newsgroups. Usenet is basically a cross between email and web forums, using elements of BBS creating threaded discussions with news reader software and posts stored on the server.
Task 1 - email and email lists
Email stands for electronic mail and it is similar in structure to a letter, however in a digital form. It is the basis of internet communication as it is fast, flexible and reliable. It is a method of creating the message and transmitting it through networks to other email addresses, or just simply storing the text based message. Networks provide gateways to other computer systems allowing mail to be sent anywhere around the world. Most email systems use text editor to compose messages, although others are available this is the most popular.
When messages are sent, often the computer automatically notifies the user if online, otherwise they are stored in electronic mailboxes where they can be read, stored, forwarded to others or simply deleted.
Email is very easy to use, as it is just a case of setting up an account with an email server, such as MSN or AOL, then getting other peoples address to contact them, by just clicking on 'NEW', typing a message, entering the address, then clicking 'SEND'.
I still use email for contacting people who do not have instant mailing, such a MSN Messenger or Facebook, and also for sending large files, like assignments or pictures to other computers, or to other people.
Email lists are mainly used for business usage, providing people with extensive mailing lists. Mailing lists make it possible to send a message to one email address, for automatic redistribution to a large number of individuals' addresses. The typical uses of this are discussions within groups and businesses with a common interest, and also the distribution of information about activities, events and other services.
Thursday, 22 January 2009
West Ham United FC
After a poor start to the season, and a lot contoversy still surrounding the Carlos Tevez affair, Gianfranco Zola's West Ham have notched up four wins in their last five, with Carlton Cole suprisingly leading them their. A good run in the league, places West Ham securely in 8th position and looking strong in the FA Cup, playing Hartlepool away this weekend, surely providing a convincing victory.
My prediction for this weekend is a 3 - 1 win for West Ham, also Craig Bellamy to finally get out and go to the money mad Man City. Overall for the season, West Ham will once again play in an FA Cup thriller final, and end up finishing 7th in the league.
My prediction for this weekend is a 3 - 1 win for West Ham, also Craig Bellamy to finally get out and go to the money mad Man City. Overall for the season, West Ham will once again play in an FA Cup thriller final, and end up finishing 7th in the league.
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