Reflection #24

(1) Describe the Resource / Experience:
During my resource search this week, I also discovered this YouTube video entitled “Social Networking in Plain English”. This is a YouTube video that I happened to run across during my resource search. It was very interesting and it clearly explained social networking and the purpose of social networking sites in a quick and easy manner. If you’re unclear about social networking sites or the history behind them, then view this video and most of your basic questions should be answered. This is a great resource.
(2) Lessons Learned / Applications for the Classroom / Recommendations for Yourself or Others:
Before viewing this video, I knew what social networking sites were, but I didn’t really know the history or rationale behind them. However, this video provided a lot of insight for me. Through this video, I learned that people use traditional social networks everyday to get things done quicker and easier. For example, Sam needs a job, and Sam knows Chris who knows Kim who is going to put in a good word for Sam with her employer. However, this video made me realize that social networks are only valuable when they are noticed and fully utilized. I learned that this is where social networking sites come into play because these sites allow users to connect with people who have similar concerns or interests and create tangible social networks that can be seen. Overall, through this video, I gained a greater understanding of social networking sites and their purpose.
(3) Links to Readings, Resources, or Discussions:
These ideas directly relate to the following resource in my Resource Log:

LeFever, L. (Producer). (2007, June). Social networking in plain English. The CommonCraft Show. Podcast retrieved from http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6a_KF7TYKVc

Moreover, these ideas directly relate to the section in chapter 8 of our WikiText that discusses social networking tools.