It has been interesting to read and compare the information regarding Web 1.0 and Web 2.0 as it prompts one to ponder the positive and negative aspects of this development.

Web 1.0 was the dissemination of information to users which was read in a passive fashion.  Obviously, there was no room for discussion, collaboration, critiquing or praise of this information.  Web 2.0 enables two-way dialogue between users.  Social media and networking was created as a result of this.  Interactions with individuals, groups, forums, discussions, blogs, wikis, networking, tags enabling information to be categorised and gaining a wealth of information from others are just some of what we are seeing today as a result of Web 2.0.  We are not only consumers of information now but also producers.

This then leads to the need we have as a society to question the credibility of what we are reading and where the source actually comes from, as anyone can write an article and publish it on the internet.  It is vital that society are taught critical thinking skills from an early age so people are questioning the legitimacy of information on the web and know how to check the credibility of the author if it is questionable.

Web 2.0 has enabled the world to become a ‘smaller place’ and it has had so many positive impacts for people of all backgrounds, even “educators can expand and diversify the learning environment , and thus increase student motivation and engagement” (Dumitrescu, 2015, p.149).  It has enabled people to connect in positive ways to help each other through support, collaboration and sharing of information.  However, with this, there are also negative impacts such as bullying, people collaborating for evil reasons and sharing and discussion of ‘fake news’ and misinformation.  It is important that people of all ages are continuing to be educated on this and ways Web 2.0 can be used for ‘good’ and what should and can be done when becoming a victim or noticing someone becoming victimised.

In conclusion, we are extremely lucky to be part of this world where people can connect so easily with others for a variety of different reasons, whether it be personally or professionally.  For many people it has made life much easier as it is so simple to connect with others and for many it has also created some problems.  Overall, Web 2.0 has enabled the ‘spread’ of information to happen at a rapid and exciting rate which can be shared and discussed in a variety of ways.

References

Dumitrescu, V.M. (2015). One step ahead: From web 1.0 to web 2.0 technologies in higher education.  eLearning and software for education, 2, 143-150.

doi: 10.12753/2066-026X-15-111