This course has increased my knowledge about online communication by exposing me to work by Baym, Turkle, Norris. These key theorists along with others have created study’s and resources for us to better understand the impact of technology and our communication networks. Additionally, I realize that the internet hasn’t been here very long, it has changed interpersonal and group dynamics through virtual space, and relationships are made more freely online for social capital reasons.
My understanding has changed by realizing that being over connected can influence the individual to have multiple “faces”, the internet can be effective or ineffective, and that it is a huge distraction. Cellphones were a big part of the distraction piece for me I know realize that I may have an issue with constantly checking my phone for an email/fb post/instagram. Therefore, I plan to cut back on my usage because it’s similar to a person who smokes taking up so much time for a habit!
Overall, technology has richened communication because it gives instant access to unlimited resources. However, social networking is dominate for networks but comes with additional ties that we may not necessarily need. As for future research I would say that we need to see what the next step is in technology to determine what else needs to be answered. For now, researchers are on track with social trends by evaluating SNS’s and the psychological effects of communication on the internet.
P.S.
I learned what a BLOG was and how they are created!
Thank you.
I like how you compared the internet usage to smoking as a habit. Do you think people can get addicted to technology and the internet? I do agree that identity can be established by being over connected.
This was my first time in this semester to hear about blogs. In fact, it was very interesting and new experience where we had to read some articles and express our thoughts about the most interesting topics from the readings. It also give me the chance to learn about the other students from their blogs’ posts and comments even though I never met with anyone of them offline.
Like you, I also learned how to blog people from the lessons I experienced in this class. I also learned about the countless amounts of people who use new technologies on a daily basis. I still find it hard to believe that these technologies, like cell phones and the internet, have become so vital in many people’s lives. Another thought or point of interest is how technology will probably improve in the future. Only time will tell how these technologies will change for the better or worse.
I think most people are ready are addicted to the to CMC and the internet. With so many task and communication actions being preformed on the internet is hard to say were the addiction starts.