Web 2.0

My experience with Web 2.0 applications has provided me with a positive outlook on the future of the Internet for instruction and training. However, Anderson (2007) raises an interesting discussion pertaining to the future of Web 2.0 natives. Web 2.0 both provides tools to solve technical problems and presents issues that raise questions. If students arrive at colleges and universities steeped in a more socially networked Web, perhaps firmly entrenched in their own peer and mentoring communities through systems like Myspace, how will education handle challenges to establish ideas about hierarchy and the production and authentication of knowledge? The need for professional development becomes a focal issue because their level of technology experience will define the nature of students. Students who are immersed in the era of Web 2.0 will expect to learn through exploration, collaboration and research. Instant communication and feedback will be expected from professors. These expectations should work in favor of professors who are willing to engage learners and incorporate Web 2.0 applications into their classrooms and lessons. 

Professors who can effectively incorporate this technology can create learning environments that include the expert knowledge of professional and in depth discussions with peers from around the world. Web 2.0 can be used to create learning environments and communities developed through rich discussions and credible research efforts. Collaborative knowledge banks and information repositories can be used to share knowledge and resources within and outside the learning community. However, the use of Web 2.0 also presents challenges.

The use of Web 2.0 applications presents excellent opportunities of collaboration and knowledge sharing. Goggle docs allow users to easily post and edit documents within creating a collaborative environment that could connect users from multiple locations. However, these Web-based applications do present technical issues. Document security and privacy is an issue when dealing with Web applications. Although these applications can be used to increase production through collaborative initiatives, many companies block their use for security measures. Never the less, for content of a public nature, these applications can be beneficial.

            Even with the vast potential of Web 2.0 applications, basic knowledge in ethics and copyrights must be incorporated within its use. Although many students will enter college with experience in social networking and will have expectations to learn within similar environments, they may not have the appropriate level of knowledge to use these tools in educational settings. Search methods and knowledge pertaining to accessing relevant and credible references, must be stressed as we enter an age of collaborative technology. With the proper steps, this technology can grow into a realm of knowledge available to those who chose to enter into a new age of learning and inquiry.

 

Anderson, P. (2007) What is Web 2.0? Ideas, technologies and implications for education.  JISC Technology and Standards Watch. Retrieved July 5, 2008 from http://www.scribd.com/word/full/300024?access_key=47yzb33p9kfho