Computer Mediated Communication (CMC), has changed the way individuals communicate. There are no mediators or censors. CMC allows individuals to communicate with one another no mater their reace or gender with fewer judgements and miss understandings than any other communication available.
Research has been done on how CMC helps woman and non english speaking in educational environments. It has been proven that Latin American Woman recieve high marks when allowed to post annonymously have recieved high remarks, even though they did not engage in heated debate or critiques in their classes.
Sexism and Racism is a continuing issue in todays society. No matter how old it gets or how tired people are of hearing about it. Communicating via internet allows people to by pass any racism or sexism as gender and race are a non issue.
Senior Citizens and the Internet-a Growing Love Affair
"The internet makes my life much easier by keeping me easily in touch with people at their convenience." -John, 72
A love affair has been growing in a place where incompatibility was previously thought to exist-between the internet and senior citizens.
According to a study published in 2008, senior citizens are one of the fastest growing segments of internet users in the world; 68 percent of individuals aged 55-59 , 55 percent aged 60-64, 57 percent aged 65-69, 27 percent aged 70-75, and 17 percent aged 76 and older regularly utilize the internet in some fashion. Many senior citizens appreciated the wealth of medical knowledge available at just the stroke of a key or a click of the mouse, as well as the ability to easily connect with friends and relatives. Additionally, senior citizens polled in the aforementioned survey are technologically savvy, many utilizing the internet in their current job functions.
As "baby boomers" continue to age, websites catering to "all things senior" will undoubtedly begin to dominate the internet landscape. As the sophistication of older internet users grows, it will be interesting to see what enterprising company (or perhaps individual) will emerge as the gold medal winner in the senior citizen internet olympics!
Reference:
McMillan, Sally J.1 sjmcmill@utk.eduAvery, Elizabeth Johnson1 ejavery@utk.eduMacias, Wendy2 wmacias@grady.uga.edu
Source:
Information, Communication & Society; Oct2008, Vol. 11 Issue 5, p675-697, 23p
A love affair has been growing in a place where incompatibility was previously thought to exist-between the internet and senior citizens.
According to a study published in 2008, senior citizens are one of the fastest growing segments of internet users in the world; 68 percent of individuals aged 55-59 , 55 percent aged 60-64, 57 percent aged 65-69, 27 percent aged 70-75, and 17 percent aged 76 and older regularly utilize the internet in some fashion. Many senior citizens appreciated the wealth of medical knowledge available at just the stroke of a key or a click of the mouse, as well as the ability to easily connect with friends and relatives. Additionally, senior citizens polled in the aforementioned survey are technologically savvy, many utilizing the internet in their current job functions.
As "baby boomers" continue to age, websites catering to "all things senior" will undoubtedly begin to dominate the internet landscape. As the sophistication of older internet users grows, it will be interesting to see what enterprising company (or perhaps individual) will emerge as the gold medal winner in the senior citizen internet olympics!
Reference:
McMillan, Sally J.1 sjmcmill@utk.eduAvery, Elizabeth Johnson1 ejavery@utk.eduMacias, Wendy2 wmacias@grady.uga.edu
Source:
Information, Communication & Society; Oct2008, Vol. 11 Issue 5, p675-697, 23p
Who ARE you?
"The only place I can be myself is online" -Vork from "The Guild"
John Suler's article "Identity Management in Cyberspace" tackles this very subject matter when it comes to alter ego's created in the anonymity of cyberspace. The fantasy world people create amongst various online communities, be it forums, games or chat lines. Recently an Asian couple were sentenced to prison for the negligent death of their newborn child due to starvation as a result of their online obsession with a game which ironically enough, involved raising a child. It's understandable how a person can find themselves a sense of freedom or disassociation from the daily drudgery of life, but to completely entrap yourself in multiple personalities...what cost does this have on their actual psyche? Does this allow for the development of positive attributes of ones personality or does it lead to acting out and negative behavior? The cloak of invisibility afforded by the Internet and it's long-reach into both deviant and positive groups. The influence which can be presented to those seeking validation or friendship can be a dangerous one. Suler's position concerning this is "Negative aspects of identity can be acted out or worked through. Positive aspects can be expressed and developed".
For some, this escape is all one feels they have available to them. The fear of actual interaction can be frightening to some in real life, but may quickly form a deeply emotional relationship through an online format. The problem with this is how much is this persona TRULY them and how much is a concoction which has been created and built up over time. Do the silent and passive-aggressive find themselves to be outgoing and carefree in their online universe? Can these online attributes change a person to become what they believe, or are they just living in a world of fantasy? It would seem easy to find a sense of belonging within certain online groups which may or may not be in their best interests such as terror/hate groups, pedo-bears or lumberjacks as they use cyberspace to entice those looking for a connection.
To me it seems as the technology becomes more prolific to people, the less need they may seek personal contact. Driving through neighborhoods, it seems terribly different from when I was growing up. There's no children running wild through the streets, hanging from trees or trying to ride their bikes/skateboards off ramps. They're all inside and I believe losing that summertime connection of interacting with other kids. Instead they have playgroups...a limited time frame after which they become enthralled in all things electronic. It's this time that I fear we're breeding a generation cut off from each other without the benefits of growing up without ever being in a fistfight, unrefereed ballgames and learning the hierarchy of life.
Cited:
Suler, J.R. (2002). Identity Management in Cyberspace.Journal of Applied Psychoanalytic Studies, 4, 455-460
DIRECTV vs. Netflix
As you look at your DIRECTV bill and you see the amount you want to scream. Yes there is a grace period when you have Showtime and HBO and a lower price but that ended last month and no one told you to unsubscribe to the added channels that you found less entertaining than the non pay channels. Now you have a bill that has gone up twenty five dollars or so with nothing to show except a few movies that you have seen and recorded.
DIRECTV is fairly inexpensive in the beginning but after a certain grace period the savings all come to an abrupt halt.
DIRECTV COSTS
150+ channels is $29.99 a month without any of the amenities
210+ channels is $34.99 a month without any of the amenities
225+ channels is $39.99 a month without any of the amenities
285+ channels is $85.99 a month without any of the amenities
Each of these will increase $29.00 a month after a year into your contract and after the second year they will increase $14.00 more dollars. All of these prices are with no high definition or recording apparatus.
For the Netflix side of things it is much simpler $8.99 for one check out movie at a time and unlimited instant viewing of their library. If you want to ad $2.00 you can get high definition movies. Netflix also has no contracts that people have to sign. for more movies to check out at a time you will have to pay more.
NETFLIX COSTS
1 DVD out at-a-time (limited 2 rentals a month) $4.99 or $5.99 for Blu-Ray
1 DVD out at-a-time + unlimited instant watching $8.99 or $10.99 for Blu-Ray
2 DVDs out at-a-time + unlimited instant watching $13.99 or $16.99 for Blu-Ray
3 DVDs out at-a-time + unlimited instant watching $16.99 or $20.99 for Blu-Ray
4 DVDs out at-a-time + unlimited instant watching $23.99 or $28.99 for Blu-Ray
This pricing goes up to 8 DVDs a month at $47.99 + unlimited instant watching and $56.99 for Blu-Ray.
There are no hidden costs or fees no contracts except you will be charged for the movies if you decide to keep them after you unsubscribe.
You decide
Cyberterrorism and Censorship-is it Plausible?
"In most cases, radical movements are quite unchallenged as they use the web to promote their views and policies."-David Livingstone
In the article "Taking on the Radicals," David Livingstone refers to a group of young British Muslims who were charged with terrorist acts after discovery of radical, Islamic-related material was found on each of their respective computers. Destructive action was not taken by any member of the aforementioned group, so it would seem that the question now becomes one of the appropriateness of censorship to potentially stop trouble before it begins.
A fine line exists between freedom of speech and the protection of innocents. Should the internet employ a type of policing/censorship system to block perceived harmful materials, or should the internet remain a conduit for the free exchange of ideas? Livingstone enumerates the many difficulties of trying to introduce censorship into the web and chat rooms, bemoaning the near impossibility of policing the enormity of cyberspace. Livingstone instead brings forth a new set of ideas such as a "web-engagement" strategy that would depict real world events to discourage individuals from subscribing to "fringe" or radical ideals.
In any case, development of a strategy to curtail terrorist acts is not only encouraged, but (unfortunately) necessary if we wish to continue to enjoy a peaceful existence.
Reference:
Livingstone, D. (2007) Taking on the radicals. Censorship. 36 (4),148-153.
Retrieved from Ebsco database May 25, 2010.
In the article "Taking on the Radicals," David Livingstone refers to a group of young British Muslims who were charged with terrorist acts after discovery of radical, Islamic-related material was found on each of their respective computers. Destructive action was not taken by any member of the aforementioned group, so it would seem that the question now becomes one of the appropriateness of censorship to potentially stop trouble before it begins.
A fine line exists between freedom of speech and the protection of innocents. Should the internet employ a type of policing/censorship system to block perceived harmful materials, or should the internet remain a conduit for the free exchange of ideas? Livingstone enumerates the many difficulties of trying to introduce censorship into the web and chat rooms, bemoaning the near impossibility of policing the enormity of cyberspace. Livingstone instead brings forth a new set of ideas such as a "web-engagement" strategy that would depict real world events to discourage individuals from subscribing to "fringe" or radical ideals.
In any case, development of a strategy to curtail terrorist acts is not only encouraged, but (unfortunately) necessary if we wish to continue to enjoy a peaceful existence.
Reference:
Livingstone, D. (2007) Taking on the radicals. Censorship. 36 (4),148-153.
Retrieved from Ebsco database May 25, 2010.
Workspace Orientation
"When a building needs a lot of space they build vertically...my room has a high ceiling, so that's what I did, I designed a desk which was under my bed".
-Joel Vardy, 17 year old student
It would appear as though Joel took a hint from the European ghettos of the Middle Ages, when Jews confined within walled off parts of town would build upon the tops of older buildings to accomodate their growing population. To walk the alleyways is reminescent of walking through a deep ravine...the sunlight barely peeking through.
Tonight we discussed the different set-ups of our workspaces and how their effects on our work habits; how differently they enabled us to achieve optimum accomplishments in our daily tasks. Ironically, Lifehacker.com published an article about this very subject and readers have submitted thier own examples of how they cope with limited area or have revamped it to meet their needs. These examples can be seen at http://www.flickr.com/groups/lifehacker-workspace-showandtell/.
Coming up with an original redesign when you're limited by space, location or company/spouse's dictates. Were it the desires of most of us, our desks would easily become an all encompassing "Command Center", with everything perfectly placed and at our fingertips. Multi-screen displays, surround sound and a kegerator within arms reach allowing us to multitask to our hearts content...be it work, play or just a little bit of both. To be honest, most of us would just be happy to have our own little place of solitude where we can accomplish the goals we have in place for ourselves or by another. When we're they're, we just want to be comfortable enough so as not to be stiff at the end of the day but not so much where we doze off for the better part of the afternoon. For some of us, just to have room to set a pile of papers or a book to scan from while at the computer is enough. For others it's all about a room with a view, whether that's photos tacked to the cubicle wall or a glimpse out the window every so often to check on how the squirrels are doing.
-Joel Vardy, 17 year old student
It would appear as though Joel took a hint from the European ghettos of the Middle Ages, when Jews confined within walled off parts of town would build upon the tops of older buildings to accomodate their growing population. To walk the alleyways is reminescent of walking through a deep ravine...the sunlight barely peeking through.
Tonight we discussed the different set-ups of our workspaces and how their effects on our work habits; how differently they enabled us to achieve optimum accomplishments in our daily tasks. Ironically, Lifehacker.com published an article about this very subject and readers have submitted thier own examples of how they cope with limited area or have revamped it to meet their needs. These examples can be seen at http://www.flickr.com/groups/lifehacker-workspace-showandtell/.
Coming up with an original redesign when you're limited by space, location or company/spouse's dictates. Were it the desires of most of us, our desks would easily become an all encompassing "Command Center", with everything perfectly placed and at our fingertips. Multi-screen displays, surround sound and a kegerator within arms reach allowing us to multitask to our hearts content...be it work, play or just a little bit of both. To be honest, most of us would just be happy to have our own little place of solitude where we can accomplish the goals we have in place for ourselves or by another. When we're they're, we just want to be comfortable enough so as not to be stiff at the end of the day but not so much where we doze off for the better part of the afternoon. For some of us, just to have room to set a pile of papers or a book to scan from while at the computer is enough. For others it's all about a room with a view, whether that's photos tacked to the cubicle wall or a glimpse out the window every so often to check on how the squirrels are doing.
Skype - The Free Unsung Commincation Hero Application
“Skype really is the benchmark for online voice services. […]for most small firms it is a superb way to communicate while keeping costs down.” (Prigg, 2010)
Skype is a free communication software package that includes video chat, instant messaging, document collaboration, land line calls and so on which has revolutionized online communication. Over the past few years, Skype has reached popularity for small to medium sized company’s (Prigg, 2010) to everyday personal use.
There are many features that make this program special, notably the ability to call landlines for a small charge, and specific add-on features similar to what Firefox offers to expand it productivity. Collaboration, for example, can be used with its gigantic library of add-ons to include remote access for desktop sharing, share files and folders and even send faxes. Whether one needs to run a video meeting or a basic audio conferencing session to include chat, anywhere in the world, Skype can make that happen.
For fans of portable applications and the like, a portable version of Skype is available for use as well, making it very handy and convenient for using it on the run. Not only can it be run portably, mobile versions are also available for free use on Blackberry, Android and iPhone phones.
So, Skype is indeed a very sophisticated program that will enable anyone with a webcam or a microphone connect to family, friends or co-workers instantly free of charge. It encourages communication on a level that competes with other web conferencing applications and its popularity will continue to rise for the years to come.
Prigg, Mark. "Get the picture: the latest web and videoconferencing options provide a real alternative to face-to-face meetings."
Business Traveller (March 2010): 54(4). Academic OneFile. Gale. BCR Regis University. 24 Apr. 2010.
Skype is a free communication software package that includes video chat, instant messaging, document collaboration, land line calls and so on which has revolutionized online communication. Over the past few years, Skype has reached popularity for small to medium sized company’s (Prigg, 2010) to everyday personal use.
There are many features that make this program special, notably the ability to call landlines for a small charge, and specific add-on features similar to what Firefox offers to expand it productivity. Collaboration, for example, can be used with its gigantic library of add-ons to include remote access for desktop sharing, share files and folders and even send faxes. Whether one needs to run a video meeting or a basic audio conferencing session to include chat, anywhere in the world, Skype can make that happen.
For fans of portable applications and the like, a portable version of Skype is available for use as well, making it very handy and convenient for using it on the run. Not only can it be run portably, mobile versions are also available for free use on Blackberry, Android and iPhone phones.
So, Skype is indeed a very sophisticated program that will enable anyone with a webcam or a microphone connect to family, friends or co-workers instantly free of charge. It encourages communication on a level that competes with other web conferencing applications and its popularity will continue to rise for the years to come.
Prigg, Mark. "Get the picture: the latest web and videoconferencing options provide a real alternative to face-to-face meetings."
Business Traveller (March 2010): 54(4). Academic OneFile. Gale. BCR Regis University. 24 Apr. 2010.
DeLorme Earthmate PN60w with SPOT Satellite Communicator
“The DeLorme Earthmate® PN-60w with SPOT Satellite Communicator will be the first handheld GPS navigation device capable of sending customized text messages even when the user is operating far beyond the range of cellular communications.” (http://www.delorme.com/about/pressreleases/SPOTcommunicator.htm)
My fiancé loves to escape to the mountains every weekend and I worry a lot about him. I always tell him to be careful and to leave a note with the names of the mountains so that I know where he is, but is that good enough. I have a strong feeling that the new technology DeLorme has invented will put my mind at ease. The Delorme Earthmate PN-60 with spot satellite communicator is a device that is capable of sending text messages even in areas where most would lose signal. “Users can send freeform text messages using the PN-60w’s keyboard to select individuals or groups from the field even from remote areas world-wide.” (Conley & Moore, 2010)
The Earthmate PN-60w is a great device for family members who worry a lot about someone. The device is up to date, never behind on time. It also helps hikers or mountaineers in emergencies. Quite a few sites help collaborate the communication between the mountaineer and the person at home. “Custom messages and waypoints can easily be shared with social networking sites like SPOTadventures.com, Geo-caching.com, Twitter, and Facebook. As an emergency back-up, the SPOT Satellite Communicator has stand-alone capability to send location-based SOS notification to an emergency response center.” (Conley & Moore, 2010) The device can be easily viewed on the SPOT website. He or she is able to customized maps and trips. Overall, the Earthmate PN-60w is a wonderful device to have for both the mountaineer and the worrier.
Reference
Conley, Charile, Moore, Derek. (January 6, 2010). DeLorme and SPOT Unveil First Handheld GPS with Satellite Communicator. Retrived on April 22, 2010. http://www.delorme.com/about/pressreleases/SPOTcommunicator.htm
My fiancé loves to escape to the mountains every weekend and I worry a lot about him. I always tell him to be careful and to leave a note with the names of the mountains so that I know where he is, but is that good enough. I have a strong feeling that the new technology DeLorme has invented will put my mind at ease. The Delorme Earthmate PN-60 with spot satellite communicator is a device that is capable of sending text messages even in areas where most would lose signal. “Users can send freeform text messages using the PN-60w’s keyboard to select individuals or groups from the field even from remote areas world-wide.” (Conley & Moore, 2010)
The Earthmate PN-60w is a great device for family members who worry a lot about someone. The device is up to date, never behind on time. It also helps hikers or mountaineers in emergencies. Quite a few sites help collaborate the communication between the mountaineer and the person at home. “Custom messages and waypoints can easily be shared with social networking sites like SPOTadventures.com, Geo-caching.com, Twitter, and Facebook. As an emergency back-up, the SPOT Satellite Communicator has stand-alone capability to send location-based SOS notification to an emergency response center.” (Conley & Moore, 2010) The device can be easily viewed on the SPOT website. He or she is able to customized maps and trips. Overall, the Earthmate PN-60w is a wonderful device to have for both the mountaineer and the worrier.
Reference
Conley, Charile, Moore, Derek. (January 6, 2010). DeLorme and SPOT Unveil First Handheld GPS with Satellite Communicator. Retrived on April 22, 2010. http://www.delorme.com/about/pressreleases/SPOTcommunicator.htm
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