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Much of the discussion surrounding Web 2.0 comes from internet marketers.  The opinions and input of the internet marketers is valuable because they are the ones seeking to reap the potential benefits of this technology.

I will provide a short but concise piece from my perspective as an Education Professional.  My thoughts about Web 2.0 are different because my goals are different.  I hope to provide an additional perspective which I hope adds to the available information and enhances the discussion of Web 2.0.

Tim O’Reilly is the indisputable authority on Web 2.0 and any discussion should refer back to the original scripture so to speak.  As I ponder the O’Reilly documents there are a number of points that I feel akin to as a Teacher and Educator.

I agree with O’Reilly that the web is a system.  His major points that define Web 2.0 show the web as a complex machine that consists of programs and applications all interacting with the people using the internet.  I feel that this is the “cold hard” mechanics of the internet.  Don’t get me wrong they are a valuable part of the internet, because without these mechanics it all doesn’t work.

As an Educator and Trainer I choose to focus on the Collaborative and Relationship aspects of Web 2.0.  For me, education is about learning, and collaboration is a large part of the teaching methods currently that I like to use.  Web 2.0 components enhance the collaborative way of learning.  For example the ability to share documents through Google Docs, and the use of Forums are tools that educators employ to help students learn in a collaborative environment.  Blogs are another tool that when properly deployed can provide valuable collaboration among peers.

The other part of Web 2.0 that interests me are the components that enhance relationships.  The relationships I form with my students in my role as a teacher are absolutely critical to the learning process.  Some argue that relationships are difficult to form in the online community.  I agree with this.  Relationship building online is Difficult, but NOT Impossible.  I feel that building relationships takes longer online due to the medium.  E-mail is the traditional and probably the slowest.  Applications like Twitter are the second tier, and the fastest is IM or online chat.  Nevertheless whichever application you choose to use to build relationships it takes time.  If you are not ready to dedicate the time it won’t happen.

My websites tend to be mostly informational, and I don’t sell products or information.  For me Web 2.0 is a hobby that I really enjoy.  I am an anomaly, as most of my friends online are business people.  They use the web to make a living.  My hope is to assist them and others in the quest for knowledge.  At this point in my life that’s all I want to do.  A wise friend told me, “build the relationships and the rest will follow”.

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About the Author:
Loren is a Principal Manufacturing Engineer by day, and an Education Professional by night. His engineering career has allowed him to have the roles of both engineer and Educator. He enjoys the study of instruction and training methods. He has a blog where he shares his thoughts on education and technology. Stop by and take a look at his latest projects. – http://www.theteachingbox.com.