Nowadays, 90 percent of children are online. The internet, and social networking sites, can be used for self expression, to get information, and to connect with others. One major aspect of social networking sites is the ability to talk to people; many people have some sort of social network where they can talk to all of their friends at the same time by being online. However, there are downsides to this new age of technology. Many of these relationships that children have with online peers are invisible to parents. They are not aware of what their children are doing online, and there is no one in charge to regulate their online activity. Kids tend to be crazier online, where they know that nobody is watching them.
“Obama, the former Chicago community organizer, created the ultimate online political machine." Obama's use of social networking sites was an extremely smart move. For many people, this was their first time voting, and Obama targeted them by using the tool most young people use everyday- the internet. His website, ww.my.barackobama.com, allowed users to donate money online, and track their personal goals. Obama used many types of ‘new media’ to campaign, such as YouTube, text messaging, MySpace, and Facebook. Supporters were able to spread his messages through the many outlets that the internet provides.
Second life is a multiplayer online game, originally made as an environment which would allow players to do things such as fly, dress up in outlandish outfits, drive, and other activities. However, it is now being used by business school students and abused children to test their talents, or to relearn how to socialize. Second Life, and online communities similar to it, allows people with disabilities to overcome them, and allow them to experience a normal world in the virtual one. They get to experience life without being judged, which is very emotionally helpful to their growth as a person. Second life has no real objective, other that interacting with people. There is no limit for these members to interact, they can join clubs, or just instant message each other.
I remember when I had to dial up to use internet and it was so slow that I just couldn't stay online for several hours. Instead I went outside, played sports or interact with people. But now, everythings so fast and convenient, I spend so much time on internet and do everything online. Little kids these days know how to operate computer. They play games and watch cartoons online. But sometimes they can get exposed to explicit contents. Parents should be aware and monitor what children see and read.
ReplyDeleteIt's so important that parents should consider keeping a watchful eye on what their children do online because they are not aware of who the child may encounter on the internet. There are many precautions one should take with their children using the internet. These social networking sites are both helpful for building connections, but also can be dangerous because of all the predators on the internet.
ReplyDelete