An example of technology that represents a rhyme of history is social networking websites and visual communication with Skype and Apple’s Iphone 4. Social networking websites rekindles reunions and neighborhood gatherings from the past. The first social networking website launched in 1997 (SixDegrees.com). Due to lack of applications, early adopters complained that there was little to do after accepting friend requests, and most users were not interested in meeting strangers (Boyd & Ellison, 2007). Entrepreneurs paid close attention to the failures of SixDegrees.com. Myspace.com heightened the social networking epidemic in 2003. Myspace differentiated itself by regularly adding features based on used demand and by allowing users to personalize their pages (Boyd & Ellison, 2007).
Through social networking, people can use networks of online friends and group memberships to keep in touch with current friends, reconnect with old friends or create real-life friendships through similar interests on groups (TopTenReviews, 2010). Social networking websites supersede the younger generation. People of all ages and backgrounds have discovered that they can enrich their lives through the contacts they make on a social networking website (TopTenReviews, 2010).
Another interesting piece of technology that represents a rhyme of history is visual communication. Visual communication can be obtained with Skype and Apple’s Iphone 4. Skype is a software that allow users to make video calls (with multiple users) from their computers. Rather than using standard voice over IP (VOIP) protocols such as SIP and H.323, Skype uses proprietary protocols that incorporate a peer-to-peer architecture (Answers.com, 2010). Skype has taken an additional step and can be found in the latest cell phones. Skype can be found within Verizon’s Android phone.
Apple’s Iphone 4 also offers visual communication. This new application is called Face Time. Face Time uses Wi-Fi, which provides high quality video, and is built upon Internet Engineering Task Force Standards. This makes 3GPP video calls comparable to SMS messages rather than IETF standards based on email or instant messaging (Dilger, 2010). For additional information on the new Iphone 4’s video conferencing, please click on this link: http://www.zdnet.com/videos/events/iphone-4-video-calling/431580
Visual communication rekindles telephone conversation (individuals hidden behind wires and distance) and mores codes (texting and chatting) from the past. Visual communication enhances conversations because people obtain information in two forms: visually (body expressions and emotions) and auditory (verbally).
References:
Answers.com. (2010). Skype. Retrieved on July 10, 2010 from: http://www.answers.com/topic/skype
Boyd, D. M. & Ellison, N. B. (2007). Social network sites: Definition, history, and scholarship. Journal of Computer-Mediated Communication, 13(1), article 11. Retrieved on July 10, 2010 from: http://jcmc.indiana.edu/vol13/issue1/boyd.ellison.html
Dilger, D. E. (2010, June 20). Iphone 4 face time video calls won’t use cell minutes. Apple Insider. Retrieved on July 10, 2010 from: http://www.appleinsider.com/articles/10/06/20/iphone_4_facetime_video_calls_wont_use_cell_minutes.html
TopTenReviews. (2010). Social networking website reviews. Retrieved on July 10, 2010 from: http://social-networking-websites-review.toptenreviews.com/
Nikisha, I thoroughly enjoyed your examples of how our electronic communication methods rekindles community gatherings. I remember fondly our neighborhood block parties. Once a year, everyone on our block petitioned the city to block off the ends of the street. The residents all gathered up and down the street with BBQ grills, coolers, homemade salads and desserts, Frisbees, footballs, folding chairs, and who knows what for a grand ol' time. Yet today, we may never know who lives next door, but we gather online with others from around the world. I used to mourn a friend that moved clear across town, now we move around the globe and get together on FaceBook.
ReplyDeleteNikisha, I liked your connection between reunions and social networking. It was interesting to read about SixDegrees.com. I had not heard about them probably because I did not feel comfortable about interacting online. I had no problem using the internet for researching, but not socializing. Now I look at Facebook and just marvel at the connections it has encouraged not just between family but causes and groups of interest. I am always surprised to see more people my age getting connected. I enjoyed reading your post.
ReplyDeleteIn response to Rebecca -
ReplyDeleteI think it is wonderful that social networking allows people of all ages to get connected!
Rebecca,
ReplyDeleteI was the same way when it came to the social networking websites because anyone can steal your picture and create an account with your information. I guess it is a risk we take and limit people access to your account. With sixdegrees.com, I didnt know that website existed also, but I knew about the other websites that came afterwards.
Anne,
ReplyDeleteAlthough the old days and not as good as the new days, social networking still provides us with a means of communicating with family and friends. Sitting around eating watermelon, playing hide-go-seek, etc. can never be replaced because memories and experiences last a lifetime.
Nikisha,
ReplyDeleteGreat post! I have to say, with Facebook, I am more in contact with most of my family members than I have ever been! It's really nice to connect with old classmates who you very well could never hear from again! I also like the fact that I don't have to constantly be in touch with everyone, but I can always check in on them and see how they are.
Thanks,
Regina