Web 2.0 and Internet and Web Applications

Ning is an online service that allows users to create their own social networks and join and participate in other networks. No technical skill is required to set up a social network, and there are no limits to the number of networks a user can join. Users of Ning social networks have access to functionality similar to that of more well-known social networks, such as Facebook and MySpace. Various features allow users to read news or learn about related events, join groups, read and comment on blog entries, view photos and videos, and other activities as set up by the network creator. RSS feeds let users subscribe to updates from specific parts of the social network.

The "7 Things You Should Know About..." series from the EDUCAUSE Learning Initiative (ELI) provides concise information on emerging learning technologies. Each brief focuses on a single technology and describes what it is, where it is going, and why it matters to teaching and learning. Use these briefs for a no-jargon, quick overview of a topic and share them with time-pressed colleagues.

The support and governance process surrounding collaborative tools at the University of Washington has given more members of the university community the tools they want to use. This presentation will share some of the pitfalls and emerging best practices for rapidly adapting and adopting collaborative technologies.

"During the past year, rich Internet applications (RIAs) -- have started to take off in the Web
2.0 space, gaining traction in a number of different areas, including education."Rich Internet application" refers to a development metaphor that allows a much higher level of expressiveness, so that the overall user experience is improved. Most RIAs incorporate audio or visual elements to make the experience
all the more engaging."

The evolving technologies committee is charged with identifying and monitoring evolving technologies and their impact on higher education institutions. This submission is on the web in 2007.

Focusing on "pioneering," the EDUCAUSE Evolving Technologies Committee looked at six technologies and trends—Web 2.0 applications, cell phones, vortals, podcasting, open-source learning management systems, and wireless—and considered how higher education institutions can prepare not only for this rich content but also for that yet to come.

Web 1.0 has demonstrated immense powers for connecting learners, teachers, and materials. How much more broadly will this connective matrix grow under the impact of the openness, ease of entry, and social nature of Web 2.0?