NETC08 session 1024

2008-03-12T15:06:16Z

Session Name: How Ethos Shapes Web 2.0 Communities
Session Number: 1024
Location: Pinehurst
Day and Time: Wednesday, 10:45 - 11:00 am
Format: Showcase
Topic: Web 2.0 Technologies
Level: Introductory

Session Abstract:

The phrase "web 2.0" is used to describe internet communications that empower users to connect with each other. There are great opportunities for the implementation of these strategies in University Extension work, but doing so involves more than just starting a blog. It requires a change in attitude and recognition that once a site creator embraces web 2.0, the site's ethos no longer rests with the creator. Aristotle defined ethos as character, and said it was the most effective means of persuasion. Recent literature suggests that today, internet users are creating their own ethos within web sites, distinct from the intentions of site creators. At the same time, users continue to expect web site creators will provide credible information that appeals to users' sensibilities. This offers web site creators a number of opportunities for challenge and success. Here, we detail the changes that can happen when a web site successfully employs Web 2.0 technologies, specifically as they relate to the sense of ethos among site users. We ask, "when is Web 2.0 the right choice, and when might it not be?" in order to better equip web site creators to employ such features effectively.

Led By: Jacob McCarthy, , Michigan State University

Watching: NETC08 session 1024

NETC08 session 1024