Paper 2 - Unit 3 - Internet As A Medium

Basics of the Internet, Characteristics of Internet


The Internet is a global network of interconnected computers and servers that communicate with each other using standardized communication protocols. It is a vast network of networks that provides a platform for people to communicate, access information, and conduct business from anywhere in the world. Here are some basics and characteristics of the internet:


Basics of the Internet:


  • The Internet was created in the 1960s by the US Department of Defense as a means of communication in case of a nuclear attack.

  • The World Wide Web (WWW) is a collection of web pages that are stored on servers and accessed via the Internet using web browsers.

  • The Internet is not owned or controlled by any single entity, organization, or government. Instead, it is a decentralized system that is managed by various organizations and individuals around the world.

  • The Internet is accessed through an Internet Service Provider (ISP) that provides a connection to the Internet via a modem, cable, or fiber optic line.


Characteristics of the Internet:


  • Global Reach: The Internet is a global network that connects people and businesses from all over the world.

  • Open Architecture: The Internet is built on open protocols and standards, which means that anyone can develop applications, services, and products that work with the Internet.

  • Decentralization: The Internet is not owned or controlled by any single entity, organization, or government. Instead, it is a decentralized system that is managed by various organizations and individuals around the world.

  • Interconnectivity: The Internet allows computers and servers to communicate with each other using standardized communication protocols. This allows data to be transmitted and shared between devices and networks seamlessly.


Internet concepts, its working style & uses


Use:


The Internet is used for a wide range of purposes, including:


  1. Communication: The Internet allows people to communicate with each other in real-time, via email, messaging apps, and social media platforms.


  1. Information Access: The Internet provides access to a vast amount of information on any topic you can imagine.


  1. Entertainment: The Internet offers a wealth of entertainment options, including streaming services, online gaming, and social media platforms.


  1. Business: The Internet is essential for many companies, allowing them to reach customers around the world and conduct transactions online.


Internet as a Medium: Conceptual & functional dimensions.


Internet is a medium that enables communication, interaction, and exchange of information between individuals, groups, and organizations around the world. It has both conceptual and functional dimensions that make it a powerful tool for communication and collaboration.


Conceptual Dimensions:


  • Interactivity: The Internet is an interactive medium, which means that it allows for two-way communication and interaction between users. This interactivity allows users to engage in conversations, share ideas, and collaborate with each other.
  • Global Reach: The Internet has a global reach, which means that it can connect people from anywhere in the world. This global reach makes it possible for individuals and organizations to communicate and collaborate on a global scale.


Functional Dimensions:

  • Communication: The Internet is a medium that enables communication between individuals, groups, and organizations. This communication can take many forms, including email, messaging, social media, and video conferencing.

  • Information Access: The Internet provides access to a vast amount of information on any topic you can imagine. This information can be accessed through search engines, online databases, and other online resources.


Types of Internet-based communication:

Dynamics of communication in CMC and Cohesive Force of online group


Dynamics of communication in CMC:

Computer-mediated communication (CMC) has unique dynamics that are different from face-to-face communication. Some of the dynamics of communication in CMC include:


Absence of nonverbal cues: CMC lacks nonverbal cues such as facial expressions, tone of voice, and body language, which can lead to misunderstandings and misinterpretations of messages.


Anonymity and disinhibition: CMC allows individuals to remain anonymous, which can lead to disinhibition and more uninhibited expression of opinions and feelings. However, this can also lead to negative behaviors, such as trolling, flaming, and cyberbullying.


Increased access to information: CMC allows individuals to access a wealth of information and resources, which can facilitate communication and knowledge-sharing.



Cohesive Force of online group


The cohesive force of an online group refers to the factors that contribute to the group's sense of unity and cohesiveness. Some of the factors that can contribute to the cohesive force of an online group include:


Shared goals and interests: Online groups that have a common purpose or shared interests are more likely to stick together and feel a sense of cohesion.


Communication: Effective communication is key to the success of an online group. Members of a cohesive online group communicate frequently, openly, and respectfully with one another.


Group norms: Cohesive online groups have established norms and rules that govern the behavior of their members. These norms promote mutual respect and support among members.


Overall, the cohesive force of an online group is essential for its success. A cohesive group is more likely to achieve its goals and maintain its membership over time.

Journalistic uses of Internet: E-mail, Search, Video Conferencing, Webcasting,  Podcasting, Photo sharing, etc.



The internet has revolutionized journalism in many ways, providing journalists with a variety of tools and platforms to gather and report news. Some of the most commonly used internet tools in journalism include:


Email: Email is an essential tool for journalists to communicate with sources, editors, and colleagues. It allows journalists to quickly and easily exchange information and follow up on leads.


Search: Search engines like Google are indispensable tools for journalists to research and fact-check information. They allow journalists to quickly find relevant sources and information on a wide range of topics.


Video conferencing: Video conferencing tools like Zoom and Skype have become increasingly important for journalists to conduct remote interviews and attend press conferences from anywhere in the world.


Webcasting: Webcasting involves streaming live video or audio content over the internet. It is often used by journalists to broadcast live events such as press conferences, protests, and rallies.


Podcasting: Podcasts are audio recordings that can be downloaded or streamed online. They have become a popular tool for journalists to produce in-depth reporting, interviews, and storytelling.



Overall, the internet has provided journalists with a wide range of tools and platforms to gather and report news. These tools have allowed journalists to reach broader audiences and report on stories from anywhere in the world.


Application for Journalists: Blogs, Portals, Websites, Social media platforms, Wikis, etc


Journalists use a variety of applications to disseminate their work and connect with their audience. Some of the most common applications for journalists include:


Blogs: Blogs are a popular platform for journalists to share their opinions and analysis on current events. They can also be used to publish feature articles and multimedia content.


News portals: News portals are online platforms that aggregate news stories from various sources. They allow journalists to reach a broader audience and promote their work to readers.


Websites: Websites are an essential tool for journalists to showcase their work, provide background information on stories, and engage with their audience. They can also be used to collect and analyze data for investigative reporting.


Social media platforms: Social media platforms like Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram are essential tools for journalists to engage with their audience and promote their work. They can also be used to monitor breaking news and gather information from sources.


Wikis: Wikis like Wikipedia are useful tools for journalists to gather background information on topics and verify facts. They can also be used to crowdsource information from experts and the general public.


Content management systems (CMS): CMS platforms like WordPress and Drupal allow journalists to publish and manage their content online. They provide tools for formatting, editing, and publishing content, as well as managing comments and user engagement.


Overall, the use of these applications has become increasingly important for journalists to disseminate their work, engage with their audience, and stay up-to-date with the latest news and trends in their field.


Journalistic use of Social Media, Social Networking Sites, Social Media Collaboration 

(Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, Twitter, Instagram, WhatsApp, Skype, Flicker, Sound Cloud, etc.)


Social media, social networking sites, and social media collaboration tools have become increasingly important for journalists to gather information, connect with sources, and disseminate their work. Here are some of the ways journalists use these tools:


Twitter: Twitter is a popular platform for journalists to monitor breaking news and gather information from sources. They can also use Twitter to promote their work and engage with their audience.


Facebook: Facebook is a useful platform for journalists to connect with sources, share their work, and engage with their audience. Facebook groups can also be used to build communities around specific topics.


LinkedIn: LinkedIn is a professional networking site that can be used by journalists to connect with sources and other professionals in their field. It can also be used to promote their work and build their personal brand.


Instagram: Instagram is a visual platform that can be used by journalists to share photos and videos from their reporting. It can also be used to gather user-generated content from eyewitnesses and citizen journalists.


WhatsApp: WhatsApp is a messaging app that can be used by journalists to communicate with sources, share information, and collaborate with colleagues.


Skype: Skype is a video conferencing tool that can be used by journalists to conduct remote interviews and attend press conferences from anywhere in the world.


Flickr: Flickr is a photo-sharing platform that can be used by journalists to share and showcase their photos. It can also be used to gather user-generated content from eyewitnesses and citizen journalists.


SoundCloud: SoundCloud is an audio-sharing platform that can be used by journalists to share their podcasts, interviews, and other audio content.


Overall, social media, social networking sites, and collaboration tools have become indispensable tools for journalists to gather information, engage with their audience, and promote their work.



Streaming Servers: News Aggregators & SEO


Streaming servers are an important tool for media organizations, including news outlets, to distribute their content online. Here are some of the ways streaming servers can be used:


News aggregators: News aggregators are websites or apps that collect news stories from various sources and present them in a single platform. Streaming servers can be used to provide the video content for these platforms, allowing media organizations to reach a wider audience and increase their exposure.


Search engine optimization (SEO): Streaming servers can also be used to improve a media organization's SEO by optimizing their video content for search engines. This can help increase their visibility in search results and drive more traffic to their website or streaming platform.


Overall, streaming servers are a valuable tool for media organizations to distribute their content online, reach a wider audience, and increase their exposure through news aggregators and SEO.



Comments

Popular posts from this blog

CMC and theories of Digital Media: Network theory, Mediatisation theory and Actor Network Theory, Online Disinhibition (1.4.5)

(2.1.4) Digital Media Revolution: Mass Media Adaptation, Trends, Revolution

Paper 2 - Unit 4 - Digital Audience