(a) Definition of Social networking
Social networks are online platforms which allow people to connect to others to form communities based on shared interests, connections, or similar goals. These networks can be used for social purposes or more formal purposes. It also enables people to share ideas and have people from the community comment, interact and share their ideas. These social networking platforms are most closely identified with Web 2.0, but they were in existence in Web 1.0. I remember as a university student in the early 90's, using DOS based news user groups to connect to people (usually other students from around the world) in news groups who had similar interests. Web 2.0, however, has made this platform more publicly accessible and easier to use. This has enabled the proliferation of the many different types of social networking sites.
(b) Networking sites
I am surprised at the number of networking sites I have accounts on as I would not consider myself to be a social networker. I use these intermittently and in waves of interest. The most frequently accessed is LinkedIn and the Terrific Tensions blog site.
- Ravelry - a knitting and networking community. This is for social purposes to connect with other people who share my interest.
- LinkenIn - a network for professionals who are looking for employment opportunities or to expand their professional network.
- Facebook - social networking at its most popular and accessible.
- Flikr - photographic sharing site
- Twitter - micro blogging site
- Blogger - blog site - I have set up a blog site for my knitting group Terrific tensions where we can showcase our efforts as well as our graffiti knitting project.
(c) INF506
I expect to understand how to better utilise the social network platform for the organisation I work at, as well as to get a better understanding of what the implications and uses are for individuals. I hope to become more comfortable in their appropriate use - use their power for good!
