Social media are web-based and mobile technologies used to create a level of interaction that is beyond mere social communication. Various forms of social media such as blogs, podcasts, and social networking, allows a unique form of communication between individuals and organizations. Blogs allow for readers to provide comments, creating a level of interaction. Microblogging is a variation of blogging where users brief updates frequently throughout the day (i.e. Twitter). Podcasts are digital audio files that are distributed through the Internet for playback on a computer or portable media device. Photo and video sharing is a way for users to share photographs and videos with other users. Another source of social media that I believe is overlooked are MMORPGs (massively multiplayer online role-playing games) such as World of Warcraft, Star Trek Online, and Meridian 59, which allow for a unique experience in which players can interact at a social level via their characters.
I love social media outlets especially Twitter because of its simplicity compared to all the bells and whistles that are incorporated daily by Facebook. Also with social media becoming so popular, even major companies and celebrities have joined to be more accessible to their fan based or consumers. Examples would be the Wegman's grocery store being on twitter and posting daily or weekly deals, coupons and interesting events. So now you don't have to head to the store of get a leaflet in the paper, it is all at your finger tips, either on a cell phone, laptop or tablet.
ReplyDeleteWhen it comes to MMORPG's I think that yes they are ways to interact with other and have fun just like Facebook and Twitter, however unlike these two the MMORPG's don't tend to spread news and information to they way these other social media outlets do.
There are so many outlets that can be used to network socially with the world at large, including MMORPG's. While they are a less mainstream way, I could see it becoming a way for people to get together to get something accomplished, though I see it as a major distraction if it has anything to do with work. :)
ReplyDeleteWhile I am a huge fan of facebook and twitter, I see that they could also be a huge distraction, as we tend to get way too involved with what is happening with others to really have time to focus on what we should be doing.
I myself have a bit of an addiction to facebook, and at times it is known to take up time that should be spend doing homework, or work for that matter.