Social Software

I believe social software has great potential for the future of education. Two of my favorite examples come in the form of YouTube and Second Life. YouTube gives a wonderful platform for amateur content makers to showcase their talents, get feedback, and view content that will stretch the limits of their own capabilities. It also allows students to quickly find video content that may illustrate some idea or concept they are working with. Second Life has similar potential but also can be used for teaching classes, finding experts who may also be online, and working out problems with peers. Both of these examples of social software can help break down feelings of isolation students may have in dealing with problems, and lead them towards a solution.