Web 2.0?

Both the articles "Web 2.0: A New Wave of Innovation for Teaching and Learning?" by Bryan Alexander and "Why is Web 2.0 Important to Higher Education?" by Trent Batson have very large similarities and differences as well. For both, the term "Web 2.0" both meant a new, open internet with many social characteristics. It has turned into a place where people can come together and share with each other like never before. Batson procliams that Web 2.0 is a place "to find ourselves again" instead of just reading books, in regards to the social aspect. It allows students to go farther than books and actually talk easily to others about education.

Both authors argue that Web 2.0 is an open space, but differ on the value of that space. Alexander argues more about the term Wed 2.0 itself. He feels that just because the internet is more open doesn't mean it should be distinguished as a new version of the internet. The term "2.0" does not sit well with him. It's still the same internet, just a bit more social and free now. Alexander says that there are enough "blogs, wikis, trackback, podcasting, videoblogs, and enough social networking tools...tog give rise to an abbreviation mocking their very prevalence," but not to give the internet a new description. Batson has a completely different view. He feels Web 2.0 goes inline with terms such as D-Day and Pearl Harbor. It is a term that has become synonymous with a change in the web. It is a turning point in how we run our lives digitally. While both authors agree and disagree on certain topics, it is really a personal choice as to whether the internet is 2.0 or not. It all depends on your view and how you use it.