Blog posting #5 Social Media

I have really enjoyed discovering the many useful, positive ways people are using web 2.0 technology. I must admit it is a bit overwhelming as I try to understand what it means to me and how I can incorporate it in my life, my teaching and my photography. Then again, I also feel there is nothing more important than actual human connections to balance all of this out, so try not to become overwhelmed in it all. I find a walk in the woods, reading an actual newspaper and talking in person (not blogging, phoning, emailing, ichatting or texting) really helps bring me balance. I also try to appreciate that when interacting with others and remember computers and smartphones are tools for interaction and sharing, not replacements.

Rule #10: Vision trumps all other senses. Gordon Brown reminds us of this important fact while showing us photos of Kim in Vietnam, Tiananmen Square protest or most recently Neda from Iran moved people to do something about a situation they found unjust. "What we see unlocks the bonds to become a community....to believe in something bigger than ourselves to solve a problem" You could add any number of images to his list, and they are burned in our minds forever. We remember them because they cause emotion, make us feel and make us think. Luckily we are living in an age where we do not have to sit on the sidelines feeling badly about events going on halfway around the world. We can give our time, our talent, our resources or simply our attention to a situation to perhaps increase awareness and in the end help right a wrong or shed light on an injustice so it may be turned back.

A collaborative culture fulfills three basic human needs in an organization: an element of control, meaning in a situation, and positive support. (Edmonson, 2008). I do appreciate the idea of collaborative culture to promote a more humane, connected and caring world. I am not impressed if some guy uses it to find more gold unless he is sharing it with others to help end the suffering that surrounds us each and every day. Why don't you find some water while your at it mr happy camper? One day we will realize (perhaps it is already happening) that accumulating material things and acquiring personal wealth are not worthy goals, and I am perfectly content that for now web 2.0 is focused upon bringing people together to share ideas freely and form a connection that they may find positive, memorable and personally rewarding.