Impromp 2.0 - What is Web 2.0

Our assignment this week is to write down what we think Web 2.0 is within one minute. Here's what I came up with...

Web 2.0 is a way to access information on the Internet. It is not a physical thing, but a concept. It makes accessing information easier, in a central place, giving you more options to connect with other people and unlimited information.

Blue Ridge Mountain Views

What beautiful weather we've had today. I think it reached a high of 64 degrees. I definitely wanted to be outside, so I made another video, this time showing the view from my house. I love living in the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains and you can see them from my property. I hope you enjoy...

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VdUi9YsQ8Bw&feature=mfu_in_order&list=UL

Web 2.0 - Thinking Differently, Doing Differently

The video by Michael Wesch reminds me of a planning meeting I was in about six years ago. We were brainstorming ideas about our technology needs for the next 10 years. We concluded that we couldn’t plan that far in advance because the technology we would need then had not yet been developed or conceived. I wasn’t surprised by the student holding the sign that said when she graduates, she will have a job that does not exist now.

My favorite thing growing up was going to the library. I could spend hours there and just get lost in all the information that was available. When I finally had Internet access in my home in 1998, I felt like I had my own library. Eventually I stopped going to the library for fun. There was no need. Anything I could imagine, I could find right at the tips of my fingers.  And I didn’t have to use my imagination often either. Ads, suggestions, and links to similar information could lead me far beyond where I started.

This information explosion has changed the way we teach and learn. Methods used in teaching and learning for many years will never be the same. Ten years ago I never would never thought that I or anyone else would have the ability to take so many classes online. To earn a degree online was unheard of.

This video, http://www.youtube.com/user/mwesch#p/u/7/-4CV05HyAbM also by Michael Wesch shows how gathering information you need or want has changed.

Web 2.0 - Position Listing

Web 2.0 Specialist

JOB DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES include the following.  Other duties may be assigned.

A.    Maintain company website

B.     Maintain and continuously update company’s social networking sites.

C.     Multitasking skills a must

D.    Exceptional oral and written communication skills

E.     Teach Web 2.0 technologies in one traditional seat class and one distance education class per semester.

QUALIFICATIONS:

In order to perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required. 

EDUCATION and/or EXPERIENCE:

Required: Four year college or university program degree in Computer Science, Information Technology; or four or more years of related experience and/or training; or equivalent combination of education and experience.
Preferred: Master’s Degree in New Media and Global Education

LANGUAGE SKILLS:
Ability to effectively present information and respond to questions from groups of managers/administrators, faculty, staff, students, and the general public

Web 2.0 - Video

I must say that this was the hardest assignment I've done all week. I hate videos of myself. Dreading it was the worst part, no wait…knowing others will see it is the worst by far. First I wanted to do the recording in my office, but my desk was a mess, so I decided I would share the view from my front porch. However, I waited until late evening, then the sun setting in the west was blinding. All my great ideas were shot. So here is the link for my video.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WWMrA0ZK05s

Defining Web 2.0

If the Internet itself was considered Web 1.0, then Web 2.0 is any type of web application that allows user interaction, sharing, and collaboration to generate content. This user-generated content replaces the author-generated content of more traditional websites. Web 2.0 allows users to give more feedback to the author of the website. User participation, dynamic content and increased standardization enhance and enrich the user's experience. This interactive and enterprising process allows all users of Web 2.0 to share knowledge efficiently and effectively at a higher rate of speed. It allows a voice to all people who have access to the internet and is not constrained by economics or political systems. Web 2.0 somwhat levels the playing field between all its participants and subtly blurs the line between crator and contributor.

Web 2.0 - Objectives

• To get a better understanding of Web 2.0
• To learn how to incorporate Web 2.0 technologies into education
• To complete all assignments correctly and on time
• Get to know my fellow classmates
• Enjoy the journey

Web 2.0 - Class Journal

I have reached another milestone. This is my first blog. I'm sure it's a beginning of something great!

More to come.....