Using Web 2.0

In contemporary society, we are bombarded with different forms of media at all times.  Because of this, we as consumers of products, services, and information now expect interactive media - in fact, we require it - in order to attract and retain our interest.  Traditional methods of communication are in decline - most newspapers, magazines, television shows have recognized that in order to continue selling their ideas, they must plug in to the online community.  It's the same with individual voices, too.  If I want people to take note of what I have to say, I must learn how to effectively employ a variety of visual and auditory devices in an online media format that will keep my readers engaged.  This is where Web 2.0 comes in.  But hold the cellular device - what is Web 2.0?  If you are anything like me - a not-so-savvy digital native - then you are probably a little fuzzy on how this concept is defined and why it is so important.  Let me help you out.
  
 According to Wikipedia, Web 2.0 is generation two of the World Wide Web, one that is centered upon applications that facilitate an interactive means of sharing of information, interoperability, design centered around the user, and perhaps most importantly, collaboration.  Facebook, Twitter, Flickr, YouTube - these are all examples of ways in which Web 2.0 has manifested itself.  It is the world of social media.

The importance of social media cannot afford to be down-played.  According to a video entitled Social Media Revolution - a YouTube video created based on information provided by socialnomics.com - "Social media isn't a fad, it's a fundamental shift in the way we communicate." Those of us in Generation Y are what are known as "digital natives," according to author Marc Prensky.  We need to know how to use social media networks and Web 2.0, not just as participants, but as creators, in order to promote our ideas; it will be expected of us once we move into the business world.  Right now, I have very little experience in this area.  Through these assignments I am hoping to gain a better understanding.