Techno-logical?
June 15, 2010 – 1:32 pm
The computer age can be confusing and intimidating at times, with trends and technologies coming and going at an unbelievably rapid pace. Some are just getting adjusted to the internet age, while some are fully immersed and plugged in to the online world. One of the most fascinating aspects of the digital age is the social networking craze. It seems these days almost everyone has a Facebook, Twitter, Myspace, or some other form of social media. Never before has it been easier to keep in touch with new or old friends, share your activities and feelings in real time, and show photos of places you’ve been or good times you’ve had. Many of the popular social networking sites roll all of the benefits of a scrap book, diary, and address book into one convenient online package, with new and improved upgrades of course.
While some people use these sites only occasionally to see what friends or relatives are up to, many others are seemingly addicted to their various social networks and stay logged on for hours at a time. With the convenience of the modern age has come a new wave of dependence. With many cell phones now having the ability to log on to the internet and check on events as they happen, social networks have recognized the trend and have made themselves compatible with mobile devices. No longer do you have to be at home on your computer to be able to share thoughts, photos, or updates with friends. These days you can update on the go and stay hooked in constantly to online goings on. Is this a positive or a negative? It depends on the perspective of the user (or perhaps their friends who may become annoyed with constant updates and emails). Many parents are opting to limit their childrens’ time spent online and not allowing them to use mobile devices with internet capability. Some studies have linked lower attention spans and trouble learning certain skills with the glut of technological availability.
However, while there are some downsides and dangers to social networking sites, it has never been easier to coordinate events, keep in touch with friends and relatives long distance, and share various interests with everyone on a contact list simultaneously. Small businesses can even set up accounts to help market themselves to the public free of charge! From the little guy to the big guy, social networking has helped to level the playing field and allow folks to get their names and their ideas out to the public. Individuals can find new entertainers or companies, become fans, and follow the people or businesses they are interested in. People can even find others from around the country based on similar interests and activities.
In the era of social networks, more people than ever are logging on and expressing themselves!
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