Hahaha, score one for the techies. A recent study claims that the Internet and social networking do not, in fact, encourage anti-social behavior. The study actually claims that there is a correlation between those who use Web 2.0 technology/social networking and positive, social interactions. As the study states: "frequent internet users, and those who maintain a blog are much more likely to confide in someone who is of another race" and "most internet activities have little or a positive relationship to local activity." What does this mean for the future? Hopefully it'll lead to the abolition of the image of pale, nerdy, anti-social teenagers sitting hunched in front of their computers, screaming in agony if a concerned parent flicks on the light. Let's face it; there is a stigma attached to being someone interested in technology/computers. It is true that obsessions are not healthy, but is a fascination with computers, something that will be important in the future, any worse than a sports' fanatic, staying glued to the TV for hours on end to watch a ball get thrown around?
(Rant mode activate.)
But, no. Sports fans are accepted by society, lauded even. Watching sports, in my opinion, is a complete waste of time. Playing/participating in a sports activity I can see; that's a healthy form of exercise. However, sitting on your butt watching a televised game for hours just doesn't do it for me. I don't get it. Computers, though, are fascinating. You can connect with so many people online, either through social networking (see, social is right in the title!), forums (connecting with real people on the interwebz!), or simply online shopping (where you can interact with the machine, Amazon recommending you stuff, or with a person by reading reviews.) Anything you can do on the Internet (OK, maybe with the exception of MLIA, but that's just funny) is an education process. As you are using the Internet, you are learning important tools for the ever-changing world and...the future! (That was corny. So sue me)
The study goes on to mention that the amount of adults who do not have any serious confidants in their lives remains unchanged (about 6%) since 1985, and that social networking users are actually more likely to visit with neighbors or go to cafes/bars/social activities. Just because you enjoy technology does not make you a misanthropic, indignant, freak. It just makes you someone who enjoys computers.
I am not disillusioned enough to believe that there will be any radical changes in thinking due to this study, but I do think it is the first step on a large path towards acceptance, one the entire world will eventually have to tread. Computers (or some advanced form of our desktop entities) are the future, and those who know how to use them will have an advantage. Those who wasted their time watching 333 hours of football...not so much.
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Another interesting take on today's trends and ideas. Very personal and with a nice nod to a solid source at Pew. It's interesting how you raise questions about the use of social network and other web 2.0 tools.
ReplyDeleteHow do you use such tools to expand your social network? How have you used these digital tools to make connections and engage in meaningful conversations that heretofore would be impossible? How are others using such tools to make social connections, expand the conversation, or simple broaden their reach in this world. These tools can be so powerful, and it's more than just posting updates on facebook or sharing photos.
Sounds like you've discovered a real solid area to explore and I know you're not alone. I've read hundreds of things over the last three years of people grappling with the same issues you do.
Keep reading and writing.
Here's an interesting post from a teacher who is quite insightful about using technology in the classroom. His blog would be an interesting read for you too.
ReplyDeletehttp://chalkdust101.wordpress.com/2009/11/07/deaf-ears/