The Influence of Social Software Tools

2. How have social software tools had an effect on your life or work?


In the last few years, social software tools have had a major effect on my life. Even when I don't realize it, simply having access to the internet and using the computer allows me to interact with social software tools. For a number of years I did not have a computer at home, but once I did, I noticed an increase in my usage of social sites. 


When my family first got a home computer I was a senior in high school, I was thrilled to simply have access to the internet. Accessing information whenever I wanted was a new concept, and I loved looking things up and finding out whatever i could about a topic. It didn't take long though, and one of my friends introduced me to Myspace. I had never used a site like that before where I could personalize a webpage and network with other people I knew. This was my first venture into social networking, and from there my use of these tools grew quickly. 


 Soon after signing up for Myspace, I began using tools such as instant messaging and explored other sites like Facebook, various discussion boards, and online blogs. These tools gave me immediate access to a whole new world that I did not interact with face to face. I was fascinated with the virtual representation of a person, and I found that I could connect with other people on a new and different level. I could instantly chat with a person I had never met, or I could take part in a discussion about a topic of interest at any time of night or day. 


Recently, social software tools continue to influence my life. Taking classes online has presented opportunities to dive into tools like wikis and google docs, which can be updated continuously. These tools make it possible to gain an education online and to put together group projects in a practical way. They help me stay organized and keep track of what is going on. Instant sharing of information, bookmarks, photos, and other materials allows me to keep in touch with all kinds of people with the click of a button. Whether it's with family, friends, or classmates, instant connections have become a big part of my life. Social software seems to be everywhere, and the online environment has become a place for extending interactions in numerous ways. I have now used social software tools in many aspects of my life, and as technology continues to develop, I will learn more and adapt to new ideas. 

Greetings!

Hi everyone! My name is Stephanie, and I am from the Bay Area in California. I am currently an MLIS student at San Jose State University, and this is my fourth semester in the program. I will be graduating in fall, and I am excited to embark on the adventures of the information world. I completed my undergraduate work at CSU Fresno where I majored in Family and Consumer Science.

I am looking forward to this semester and taking LIBR 246. I am interested in exploring different social networking sites and how they will fit into the world of libraries and information. In the current age of Web 2.0 I think it is necessary for new librarians and information specialists to be knowledgeable in the world of social networking and software so that we can interact and aid users to the best of our ability. I look forward to learning with everyone this semester!