Week 3 Class

I thought yesterday's class was the most interesting and informational one yet! It was interesting to see how popular websites that many of us use daily such as wikipedia, youtube, twitter etc. all derive from mass collaboration and crowd sourcing. It is these terms that make these websites not only popular but also valid. I particularly find it interesting that Wikipedia can be edited by any Internet user. This availability almost instills a sense of hope in humanity because instead of people vandalizing the site, the majority of people want the truth to be posted and care enough to gather this information for others. These websites also exemplify the trends in news media. A move away from media sources such as the New York Times is occurring, and now people are creating their own context and contributing to media outlets.

One of the big topics from class was also in regards to safety on the Internet and the risk of have personal information on the multitude of available social networking sites. While I think Internet safety will always be an issue, it was pointed out that it really does not pose any more of a threat than a robbery or house break in would. Professor Sine stressed the importance of using the websites in a responsible and educated way. She also did a great job of showing how these websites can be beneficial professionally! While I do not plan on joining twitter anytime soon, I can now acknowledge how useful the site can be.

On a side note - I think classes discussing the Internet and IT should be more widespread for college and even high school students. Technologies like social networking pages and blogs etc. have become such an important part of our lives that I believe everyone should be taught how to use them in an educated and responsible way. Being educated about the programs would help dismiss a lot of the fear surrounding the safety of these website because people would use them more responsibly. I am very happy that I have taken this class. I have already learned so much more about the Internet in only three weeks. Imagine if I had taken an IT class in high school or college....