Blog #2

Chapter 2 titled "Communications, Networks, the Internet, and the World Wide Web" discusses what an asset the Internet is to the general public. The internet has become one of the greatest, and certainly fastest growing networks in the world. Many everyday things are now available online, such as shopping, e-mailing, and applications. The internet is also extending students' learning outside of their classrooms, taking them much more in depth than previously possible. The internet is constantly being updated, unlike textbooks which only stay current for a short period of time. Due to its easily updatable nature, the Internet makes learning much more cheaper as well, preventing schools from continuously buying new textbooks. Although equipping their schools with computers is a large investment up front, it saves them more money in the long run.

One of the greatest assets that the Internet provides us with is the World Wide Web. The World Wide Web (WWW) provides us with a mass volume of information, only a click away. However, with so much information at one's disposal it can sometimes be difficult to find what you are looking for. A search engine is a good way of finding information you need. Some examples of search engines include Google, Yahoo, and MSN. Many search engines use subject directories, which allow the information to be limited to a specific topic. Schools often find these search engines useful, with teachers assigning research projects specifically using the internet as a way to find information.

I have had teachers assign Internet research projects in the past and I believe that since reading this chapter I have a new appreciation for those type of assignments. The Internet has so many more places and possibilities for sources, than say, going to the school's library where there are limited volumes of books. I also learned some information about the Internet that I had not previously known. I had never learned the history of the Internet, and found it interesting that most people often think the World Wide Web and the Internet are the same thing, while in actuality, the World Wide Web is part of the Internet. As a teacher, it is important to understand the workings of the Internet so that it can be integrated in the classroom and also as part of the curriculum.