CS 292:Class Blog Spring 2008

October 2004 marked the debut of a new set of terminology and concepts in both the computer science and mainstream vocabularies: Web 2.0. As personal computers, 3D rendering, game consoles, and smart mobility devices achieve ever lower price points and higher degrees of capabilities, each can connect to high speed mobile and land based Internet services. The network now is much greater than the sum of its parts, and social computing, personal journalism, and digital media now take on new significance in the hands of individuals as equally empowered as well-known journalists and authors. As the worldwide population with Internet connectivity reaches over 1.1 billion people in 2007, the power of individuals to create and disseminate interesting, professional, and informative content and technical innovation rises at an exponential rate.

This course explores both the technological breakthroughs and the underlying social changes that enabled the shift from publishing to participation. In conjunction with this, we will explore how industries such as software development, entertainment, and medicine adapt to the increasing changes forced upon them. By equipping the student with basic vocabularies and living examples from the Web 2.0 world, he or she can more effectively engage in and shape the on-going discussions about the future of our connected societies.

Upon completing this course, the student will

• Develop a conceptual framework work that places technical innovation in appropriate business and social context
• Understand the fundamental history of the Internet
• Be able to define Web 2.0 and approach conversations around this topic in both an informed and critical manner
• Understand Web 2.0’s social impact on journalism, publishing, intellectual property and broadcasting
• Develop a framework and vocabulary for critical analysis and discourse
• Gain practical experience with Mashup, Podcasting and Blogging software and tools
• Undertake examinations, projects, and individual experiences that utilize Web 2.0 terms, tools, and techniques
• Create a Podcast: Summary of a Chapter from Where Wizards Stay Up Late
• Weekly class blog post: screen shot and description of a Web 2.0 service
• Participate in five quizzes to test your knowledge of the topics under discussion.
• Be informed as to the future of our connected world

~ by xaviermorgan on September 5, 2007.