1. For future reference to Scootersales I would most likely use the ‘Latest Scooter News’ section of the website. I would use this to update myself with any new scooters available at good prices. This area would be good for any new reviews or comparisons available on both used and new scooters that I would have simply bought for the low price or brand name. I would then move to the used scooter market for value deals and after that to the new scooter section.
2. If I were to link back to Scootersales, it would have to be to the news section, this would draw readers into reviews and comparisons of different scooters available. The body of information may then lead to searching within the new and used sections.
As stated earlier my intrest in this site would for scooters only. The site only really caters for one objective, however it can lead via the webring to other kinds of products such as motorcycles and cars.
Friday, May 9, 2008
Wednesday, May 7, 2008
I have now discovered that the class is still posting on the external forum and only posting with minimal content on the WebCT discussions. I thought that everyone had come back to WebCT and wondered why not many posts had been made recently. Thought is was possibly due to everyone completed thier assignments. I have now posted back in the forum.
I have posted by assignment as seen below and now need to make sure all modules tasks have been completed now.
I have posted by assignment as seen below and now need to make sure all modules tasks have been completed now.
Thursday, May 1, 2008
Four Concepts - Assignment
The mobility of electronic digital data (concept #5)
Advanced Internet communicators always think about the ways in which their own exploitation of the technological ease of mobile data can impact on other Internet users, seeking to ensure that technical possibility is not simply substituted for effective communication requirements.
While we send a test email to either ourselves or someone else for the first time, we wait in great anticipation and intrigue as what will happen. If all goes well with the client we are using a returned email messages will come back and be waiting in our inbox. This is amazing at the time, our first email message sent and received. As time goes on though it becomes a given to send out messages and receive even more. It doesn’t take long to have an inbox full of both massages from family, friends and even those we don’t know. Another culprit that appears to fill an inbox quickly would be dreaded Spam email; this is usually from unknown senders but not always as spam can be both legitimate and illegal. Legitimate Spam comes from those with newsletters or online sports clubs and so forth. Another form of Spam is known as unsolicited bulk email (UBE) (Wikipedia, 2008) which usually means you have not signed up to receive these messages from anyone. Other ways to be targeted by Spammers or Spamming software is to insert you email address to websites, which will either spam you directly or pass your email address on to others to spam you. Once this happens it can be very difficult if not impossible to stop your email address from being attacked.
Apart from the annoying nature of spam, the email system is a very cheap, easy and useful way to communicate with others anywhere. Even though one could send an audio, video tape, or even a photo or poster via conventional mail, the versatility and speed at which email with attachments can be sent and received is sometimes far more practical these days. Another point to mention are the distances in which some will travel to deliver normal mail on time. I came across this writing online from a chap named John Delp who decided to travel with a contractor delivering mail for the weekend. This trek covered over 2000 kilometres across the vast Australian outback. (The World's Longest Mail Run - with John Delp 1998) and even though this type of mail is still necessary, increasingly email is becoming far more attractive than normal or snail mail as it is sometimes called.
While we all have used email for different purposes to increase productivity or improve our relationships with family and friends far away or next door, email correspondence needs to be used with good judgement. Email can sometimes be very damaging with ill intent behind what can be sent to others. In the case of a woman stalked by an ex-lover via e-mail and mobile phone text messages, who threatened to e-mail intimate pictures of Samantha to her friends and family. (The Northern Echo, 2001) This would have to be that dark side to electronic communications and as seen in the above case not limited to email. Sometimes negative intent may not be on the mind of the sender at the time, however inappropriate information can be passed on that should not be and this could amount to irresponsible action.
Reference:
Wikipedia, E-mail Spam, (2008). Retrieved 12/04/08 from
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Spam_(electronic)
This Wikipedia reference was used as a simple reflection on what Spam means, even though I would not use Wikipedia as an official source of content it is still good for an overall idea about what Spam is. I’ve found that others tend to be comfortable in reading this type of information in the past and Wikipedia can be a great introduction or further source of information with embedded links. The way the Wikipedia lays outs it information makes it easy for those with little or no technical background to grasp the idea of Spam.
Site 2: By John Delp, Executive Travel. (1998),
The World's Longest Mail Run. Retrieved 27/03/08 from
http://www.executivetvl.com/mailrun/mailrun.html
The John Delp article I thought was quite good for one important reason, it shows how some will and need to go to extraordinary lengths to get normal mail to others over vast distances. Even though email can be substituted for normal mail in many cases, normal mail must be used in certain circumstances when email cannot be utilised. I also thought it was a great article in its own right lying on the boundaries of this subject. In a technological age, it also poses the larger question as to who will be willing to continue these types of tasks in the future.
The Northern Echo. (2001).
Woman stalked by ex-lover via e-mail
Retrieved 14/04/08 from
http://archive.thenorthernecho.co.uk/2001/2/27/177900.html
The Northern Echo reference and article shows the darker side to email, how this medium can be used for negative or destructive purposes. It allows us to see what may lie ahead for the future and how all of us should take reasonable steps to reduce this scenario from happening to ourselves in the future. By being aware of what others have endured or gone through, we can understand the potential for this media, whether it be positive or negative. Lastly it shows the negative side to human action through the use of technology and the ramifications if put into action.
Automation (concept #10)
Advanced effective Internet communicators do not ignore automation, nor use it unthinkingly: they essentially negotiate arrangements with their communications software and review them as necessary.
The automation of tasks either online or simply on the computer can be time and cost saving, however this can raise further questions or inevitably involve human intervention to cross examine what an automated task has completed. In some cases both the cost and time savings that were believed to be achieved are not completely true. Spam filtering for example, can reduce the amount of email sent to an inbox and allow us to focus on the more important messages. The problems with this method however allow legitimate email to continue through to the junk Spam folder and if unchecked, messages would lie there waiting for deletion without anyone knowing. This means we must periodically check the Spam folder to make sure legitimate messages haven’t been missed; this then takes up the supposed time saved in the first instance.
Another very important point to observe is that we need to be careful these days when typing certain words within an email message for fear it may be directed straight to the Spam folder for deletion. As shown in an article from Wired, called ‘Spam Filters Grab Good with Bad’ (Michelle Delio 2004) it states many words now are used by Spam filter companies and system admins to catch unwanted messages and moving them “directly into the abyss of the deleted items folder” (Michelle Delio 2004). This is a perfect example of over zealous automation, where we have setup software that was suppose to make life easier and add performance to our daily lives, but in some cases has had the opposite effect. Writing an email can now be time consuming due to fears of it bouncing back again, possibly even days later only to either call or re-email the message all over again. The Spam filter in this sense has had a negative effect on productivity.
There are valid and performance enhancing ways to use email filters, these can be to direct certain messages to pre set folders for viewing at later dates. Automation of calendar items in MS Outlook is another very efficient way of keeping track of ones time management. Software such as MS Outlook can also reduce the need to continually click the send and receive button, this is done by setting the program to automatically retrieve email messages from a desired mail server every five minutes for example. Excel spreadsheets and databasing can be another valuable automation process, even though human input is required for data, this data can be manipulated automatically either on the fly or by a particular pre-set time or date thus increasing productivity overall. Search engines are a major automated process for retrieving data, online search engines such as Google or Yahoo can decrease time spent requesting required data. Google has array of services now, like maps (http://maps.google.com/), online documents and auto saving for email, blogs and web page creators. These services are a combination of automation and interaction, which can save time and money when used in a positive fashion. Lastly, password managers can be a fantastic automated program used to save time filling in user details and keeping private details secure. One very good program called KeePass (http://keepass.info/index.html, 2008) has great security, using Advanced Encryption Standard (AES / Rijndael) 128 bits 256 bits and Twofish 128 bits 256 bits (KeePass, 2008). Plugins or short cut keys can be used to auto fill details into both web pages and applications. The best thing about this program is that it’s open source and free to use for both personal and commercial purposes.
KeePass (2008).
Retrieved 01/05/08 from
http://www.wired.com/techbiz/it/news/2004/01/61945
I have made reference to KeePass for several reasons, one since it uses automation through auto fill actions and I personally use it for passwords and bookmarks. I have researched online for a free and portable password manager many times and this one appears to be the most secure for the price, which is free. The only down fall is that for the auto fill and login feature to work, Internet Explorer is required. Other browsers such as Firefox and Opera can be used with short cuts however for auto fill only. I have found the unlimited entries and ease of use to be invaluable both at work and home.
Michelle Delio (2004). Wired.com: Spam Filters Grab Good With Bad
Retrieved 14/04/08 from
http://www.wired.com/techbiz/it/news/2004/01/61945
I have used the above reference as it has come from a relatively good source of information regarding Information Technology matters. The reference or article shows how the need to be thoughtful now days when creating an important email message due to increased spam filtering. I wanted to highlight the fact that even though spam filters are necessary for productivity, they can also be our downfall if not taken into account on a regular basis and left to their own. I also wanted to show that automation can indeed add time saved in certain circumstances.
The relationship of data to meta-data (concept #11)
Advanced Internet users learn to intuitively conceive of any document, file, message or communication as consisting of metadata and data. They then can explore the functions of various communications/information software looking for how that software can assist them in using metadata to enable sorting, processing or otherwise dealing with that data.
Meta-data is not commonly seen by most online users; generally meta-data is hidden in email clients like Outlook Express or MS Outlook unless the properties are checked within an email message. The same can be said for web pages, when browsing between pages online the meta-data tags aren’t visible on each page. Most pages will have some form of meta-data within the html to instruct the page of the type of code will be expected further down the page. For example meta-data can instruct the document to be rendered in XHTML or standard HTML depending on what’s required. Meta-data also allows for search functions, which emphasize particular links, words, phrases and even sentences to be searched on the Internet. By using certain information within meta-data more important information requested by the user can be obtained that is relevant to them.
W3C has been working on recoding this meta-data which started with PICS [Platform for Internet Content Selection] and RDF [Resource Description Framework] (Metadata Activity Statement, 2002). PICS was designed primarily for parents and teachers to control and screen out words and pages for children, RDF is more general and relates to control over the web page itself or links within the page like video, audio and pictures that have a web address to associate or access (Metadata Activity Statement, 2002). Due constant changes online the Metadata Activity Statement has now become superseded by the Semantic Web Activity Statement. RDF and OWL - Web Ontology language has been included as a core models. However new protocols have been created such as SPARQL query language (pronounced sparkle) and GRDDL - Gleaning Resource Descriptions from Dialects of Languages for the decentralization of RDF data and the bridging of the RDF model and XML technologies (Web Activity Statement 2008). All these protocols may seem complicated or involved, however the need for web developers and software vendors to conform together when designing and developing applications, websites, databases and data itself is very important now and in the future years to come. Without this collusion, future possibilities are impossible. The requirements expected and from users for both work-related and personal progression would be impacted greatly or impossible without these standards.
Other types of meta-data are used in applications like Microsoft’s Excel, when equations are created for spreadsheets. For example each cell may have hidden meta-data that makes up the instructions on how to calculate certain cell data. In fact all of Microsoft’s Office programs have meta-data embedded with the documents, Word and PowerPoint contain basic information such as the author, time and date the document was created or modified. When using these programs risks can become apparent like hidden text with sensitive information about a previous author in the case where you may have used a template to create the document. Other areas to remember would information on external parties and comments made by the current author that need not be seen. If left unchecked this could become embarrassing or even turn into a legal matter. (Metadata Risk.org, 2008).
Reference:
W3C, Metadata Activity Statement 2002
Retrieved 16/04/2008 from
http://www.w3.org/Metadata/Activity.html
The Metadata Activity Statement 2002 was used to highlight a more technical idea and background towards meta-data. To show what had been done in the past on a level other than simple tagged information. It makes it apparent how important meta-data is and the effort that some will go to in order to have a coordinated idea and set of rules to keep information organised. There have been a lot of web, programming and other professionals working hard in the past and continue today to keep standards in place.
W3C, Web Activity Statement 2008
Retrieved 16/04/2008 from
http://www.w3.org/2001/sw/Activity.html
The Web Activity Statement 2008 was used to continue my explanation of meta-data examples, however it also must be explained as it’s the W3C’s continued efforts from the previous Metadata Activity Statement 2002 protocols. The new standards needed to be added as web design, function and web applications have progressed enormously from 2002 and these standards will have to be updated to cope with demand. Without the hard work of W#C and those involved with their work, the future would be much harder for application and web developers.
Workshare: Metadata Risk.org 2008
Retrieved 1/05/2008 from
http://www.metadatarisk.org/document_security/dangers_of_docmetadata_overview.htm
I wanted to add the Workshare reference as I gained valuable knowledge that had not previously known. I had a very basic understanding about embedded information with Microsoft documents, however didn’t realise to the extent that creating such documents care was needed. This web page gives some excellent examples and pointers on how to minimize the problems with data popping up at times that would be embarrassing to say the least. Even though care needs to be taken regarding copyright information sometimes it doesn’t have to be plastered across a presentation either.
The impact of text-based real-time chat (concept #17)
Communicating in real-time with text enables a form of 'authoring of the self' that is similar to the processes of face-to-face speech but which is much more amenable to authorial control, experimentation and reflection. Further, text-based communication carries with it the possibility for multiple, differing conversations occurring simultaneously, relying on the ability of the human brain to deal with text much better than speech.
Text chat is a new way of communicating for those who have gone online for the first time. However for the experienced Internet user who may be relatively fast with a keyboard; it can be a valuable personal and business tool. Experiencing chat for the first time opens up an inquisitive mind to the fact that distance doesn’t have to be a barrier for communication, language is the last hurdle. In saying that however there are some websites like word2word.com, that list other sites for language courses online and applications that allow the translation of language within chat software such as www.webbe.com/. Once chat is familiar though, it becomes apparent how flexible this tool can be. Chat can be used at home, in the office or even on the go, not just when someone wants to meet up physically. The ability to converse with multiple windows and people makes it easier to catch-up with more friends, family or colleagues at the one time, and if the need arises, chat sessions can be saved and re-read at a later date.
The way chat is presented towards us in text format and on the screen, our brains seem to be able to comprehend this in a more organised way compared to speech. If three friends started to talk the same time, mostly likely all three conversations would not be heard correctly. With chat however all three conversations could be dealt with far easier typed out compared to spoken. Chat sessions can be created from either a chat room such as www.icq.com/icqchat, where one would login to a group and request to chat with others with in that chat group. Another form would be using a chat client like ICQ or MSN messenger. These days chat clients are more difficult to initiate chat sessions with unknown chatters as most people will block unknown users from even starting, usually a user will be known or found in a forum or chat group elsewhere beforehand.
A more recent addition to the chat genre, called video chat “allows you to easily see, hear, and chat with people all over the world through a web page” (iVideochat, 2008). Not unlike the mobile phone, chat has changed the way all of us communicate. The world seems much smaller with this simple yet effective idea. The unfortunate side to this technology has been apparent in recent times though, both personal information and the safety of children have become key questions by many. Websites like (http://www.securitysoft.com/) have information and software to aid in this negative trend online with chat rooms. Identity theft is also another reason to be careful as this is increasing every day. “guided tour of a hacker chat room where credit-card numbers, passwords, and PIN’s are bought and sold” (Stephen J. Dubner, 2007). Lastly I would like to touch on the fact that even though chat can bring other close, when required, it also keeps them far away at the same time. The removal of physical communication may play a large role in emotion and wellbeing for many users. Humans have been very social in the past but are moving towards personal isolation in the future.
Reference:
iVideochat (2008).
Retreived 14/04/08 from
http://www.ivideochat.com/
iVideochat was used as a reference to allude to the up and coming forms of chat available. I wanted to introduce a new way of using this communication media, not just from a chat client based environment, but from a web based point of view. I felt that showing how the chat genre had developed recently with video, trying not to emphasise the audio aspect as much as possible though. This points to the fact that even though video is brought into the chat circles, audio doesn’t have to be used; therefore using a chat window can still be quite powerful.
Stephen J. Dubner. (2007).
New York Times: Who Cares About Identity Theft?
Retreived 14/04/08 from
http://freakonomics.blogs.nytimes.com/2007/03/09/who-cares-about-identity-theft
The above reference and article is one way of pointing out how dangerous chat programs can be for the user who really doesn’t take any security precautions or may not be aware of their cyber surroundings online. It shows that by simply following steps requested from an email or directions from either a webpage or chat environment, how this can be disastrous. It also indicates the increasingly widespread problem this has become and the imagination boggles at what things will be like in the future regarding identity theft. Using sensible thinking and reliable updated security software can eliminate most identity theft matters.
Advanced Internet communicators always think about the ways in which their own exploitation of the technological ease of mobile data can impact on other Internet users, seeking to ensure that technical possibility is not simply substituted for effective communication requirements.
While we send a test email to either ourselves or someone else for the first time, we wait in great anticipation and intrigue as what will happen. If all goes well with the client we are using a returned email messages will come back and be waiting in our inbox. This is amazing at the time, our first email message sent and received. As time goes on though it becomes a given to send out messages and receive even more. It doesn’t take long to have an inbox full of both massages from family, friends and even those we don’t know. Another culprit that appears to fill an inbox quickly would be dreaded Spam email; this is usually from unknown senders but not always as spam can be both legitimate and illegal. Legitimate Spam comes from those with newsletters or online sports clubs and so forth. Another form of Spam is known as unsolicited bulk email (UBE) (Wikipedia, 2008) which usually means you have not signed up to receive these messages from anyone. Other ways to be targeted by Spammers or Spamming software is to insert you email address to websites, which will either spam you directly or pass your email address on to others to spam you. Once this happens it can be very difficult if not impossible to stop your email address from being attacked.
Apart from the annoying nature of spam, the email system is a very cheap, easy and useful way to communicate with others anywhere. Even though one could send an audio, video tape, or even a photo or poster via conventional mail, the versatility and speed at which email with attachments can be sent and received is sometimes far more practical these days. Another point to mention are the distances in which some will travel to deliver normal mail on time. I came across this writing online from a chap named John Delp who decided to travel with a contractor delivering mail for the weekend. This trek covered over 2000 kilometres across the vast Australian outback. (The World's Longest Mail Run - with John Delp 1998) and even though this type of mail is still necessary, increasingly email is becoming far more attractive than normal or snail mail as it is sometimes called.
While we all have used email for different purposes to increase productivity or improve our relationships with family and friends far away or next door, email correspondence needs to be used with good judgement. Email can sometimes be very damaging with ill intent behind what can be sent to others. In the case of a woman stalked by an ex-lover via e-mail and mobile phone text messages, who threatened to e-mail intimate pictures of Samantha to her friends and family. (The Northern Echo, 2001) This would have to be that dark side to electronic communications and as seen in the above case not limited to email. Sometimes negative intent may not be on the mind of the sender at the time, however inappropriate information can be passed on that should not be and this could amount to irresponsible action.
Reference:
Wikipedia, E-mail Spam, (2008). Retrieved 12/04/08 from
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Spam_(electronic)
This Wikipedia reference was used as a simple reflection on what Spam means, even though I would not use Wikipedia as an official source of content it is still good for an overall idea about what Spam is. I’ve found that others tend to be comfortable in reading this type of information in the past and Wikipedia can be a great introduction or further source of information with embedded links. The way the Wikipedia lays outs it information makes it easy for those with little or no technical background to grasp the idea of Spam.
Site 2: By John Delp, Executive Travel. (1998),
The World's Longest Mail Run. Retrieved 27/03/08 from
http://www.executivetvl.com/mailrun/mailrun.html
The John Delp article I thought was quite good for one important reason, it shows how some will and need to go to extraordinary lengths to get normal mail to others over vast distances. Even though email can be substituted for normal mail in many cases, normal mail must be used in certain circumstances when email cannot be utilised. I also thought it was a great article in its own right lying on the boundaries of this subject. In a technological age, it also poses the larger question as to who will be willing to continue these types of tasks in the future.
The Northern Echo. (2001).
Woman stalked by ex-lover via e-mail
Retrieved 14/04/08 from
http://archive.thenorthernecho.co.uk/2001/2/27/177900.html
The Northern Echo reference and article shows the darker side to email, how this medium can be used for negative or destructive purposes. It allows us to see what may lie ahead for the future and how all of us should take reasonable steps to reduce this scenario from happening to ourselves in the future. By being aware of what others have endured or gone through, we can understand the potential for this media, whether it be positive or negative. Lastly it shows the negative side to human action through the use of technology and the ramifications if put into action.
Automation (concept #10)
Advanced effective Internet communicators do not ignore automation, nor use it unthinkingly: they essentially negotiate arrangements with their communications software and review them as necessary.
The automation of tasks either online or simply on the computer can be time and cost saving, however this can raise further questions or inevitably involve human intervention to cross examine what an automated task has completed. In some cases both the cost and time savings that were believed to be achieved are not completely true. Spam filtering for example, can reduce the amount of email sent to an inbox and allow us to focus on the more important messages. The problems with this method however allow legitimate email to continue through to the junk Spam folder and if unchecked, messages would lie there waiting for deletion without anyone knowing. This means we must periodically check the Spam folder to make sure legitimate messages haven’t been missed; this then takes up the supposed time saved in the first instance.
Another very important point to observe is that we need to be careful these days when typing certain words within an email message for fear it may be directed straight to the Spam folder for deletion. As shown in an article from Wired, called ‘Spam Filters Grab Good with Bad’ (Michelle Delio 2004) it states many words now are used by Spam filter companies and system admins to catch unwanted messages and moving them “directly into the abyss of the deleted items folder” (Michelle Delio 2004). This is a perfect example of over zealous automation, where we have setup software that was suppose to make life easier and add performance to our daily lives, but in some cases has had the opposite effect. Writing an email can now be time consuming due to fears of it bouncing back again, possibly even days later only to either call or re-email the message all over again. The Spam filter in this sense has had a negative effect on productivity.
There are valid and performance enhancing ways to use email filters, these can be to direct certain messages to pre set folders for viewing at later dates. Automation of calendar items in MS Outlook is another very efficient way of keeping track of ones time management. Software such as MS Outlook can also reduce the need to continually click the send and receive button, this is done by setting the program to automatically retrieve email messages from a desired mail server every five minutes for example. Excel spreadsheets and databasing can be another valuable automation process, even though human input is required for data, this data can be manipulated automatically either on the fly or by a particular pre-set time or date thus increasing productivity overall. Search engines are a major automated process for retrieving data, online search engines such as Google or Yahoo can decrease time spent requesting required data. Google has array of services now, like maps (http://maps.google.com/), online documents and auto saving for email, blogs and web page creators. These services are a combination of automation and interaction, which can save time and money when used in a positive fashion. Lastly, password managers can be a fantastic automated program used to save time filling in user details and keeping private details secure. One very good program called KeePass (http://keepass.info/index.html, 2008) has great security, using Advanced Encryption Standard (AES / Rijndael) 128 bits 256 bits and Twofish 128 bits 256 bits (KeePass, 2008). Plugins or short cut keys can be used to auto fill details into both web pages and applications. The best thing about this program is that it’s open source and free to use for both personal and commercial purposes.
KeePass (2008).
Retrieved 01/05/08 from
http://www.wired.com/techbiz/it/news/2004/01/61945
I have made reference to KeePass for several reasons, one since it uses automation through auto fill actions and I personally use it for passwords and bookmarks. I have researched online for a free and portable password manager many times and this one appears to be the most secure for the price, which is free. The only down fall is that for the auto fill and login feature to work, Internet Explorer is required. Other browsers such as Firefox and Opera can be used with short cuts however for auto fill only. I have found the unlimited entries and ease of use to be invaluable both at work and home.
Michelle Delio (2004). Wired.com: Spam Filters Grab Good With Bad
Retrieved 14/04/08 from
http://www.wired.com/techbiz/it/news/2004/01/61945
I have used the above reference as it has come from a relatively good source of information regarding Information Technology matters. The reference or article shows how the need to be thoughtful now days when creating an important email message due to increased spam filtering. I wanted to highlight the fact that even though spam filters are necessary for productivity, they can also be our downfall if not taken into account on a regular basis and left to their own. I also wanted to show that automation can indeed add time saved in certain circumstances.
The relationship of data to meta-data (concept #11)
Advanced Internet users learn to intuitively conceive of any document, file, message or communication as consisting of metadata and data. They then can explore the functions of various communications/information software looking for how that software can assist them in using metadata to enable sorting, processing or otherwise dealing with that data.
Meta-data is not commonly seen by most online users; generally meta-data is hidden in email clients like Outlook Express or MS Outlook unless the properties are checked within an email message. The same can be said for web pages, when browsing between pages online the meta-data tags aren’t visible on each page. Most pages will have some form of meta-data within the html to instruct the page of the type of code will be expected further down the page. For example meta-data can instruct the document to be rendered in XHTML or standard HTML depending on what’s required. Meta-data also allows for search functions, which emphasize particular links, words, phrases and even sentences to be searched on the Internet. By using certain information within meta-data more important information requested by the user can be obtained that is relevant to them.
W3C has been working on recoding this meta-data which started with PICS [Platform for Internet Content Selection] and RDF [Resource Description Framework] (Metadata Activity Statement, 2002). PICS was designed primarily for parents and teachers to control and screen out words and pages for children, RDF is more general and relates to control over the web page itself or links within the page like video, audio and pictures that have a web address to associate or access (Metadata Activity Statement, 2002). Due constant changes online the Metadata Activity Statement has now become superseded by the Semantic Web Activity Statement. RDF and OWL - Web Ontology language has been included as a core models. However new protocols have been created such as SPARQL query language (pronounced sparkle) and GRDDL - Gleaning Resource Descriptions from Dialects of Languages for the decentralization of RDF data and the bridging of the RDF model and XML technologies (Web Activity Statement 2008). All these protocols may seem complicated or involved, however the need for web developers and software vendors to conform together when designing and developing applications, websites, databases and data itself is very important now and in the future years to come. Without this collusion, future possibilities are impossible. The requirements expected and from users for both work-related and personal progression would be impacted greatly or impossible without these standards.
Other types of meta-data are used in applications like Microsoft’s Excel, when equations are created for spreadsheets. For example each cell may have hidden meta-data that makes up the instructions on how to calculate certain cell data. In fact all of Microsoft’s Office programs have meta-data embedded with the documents, Word and PowerPoint contain basic information such as the author, time and date the document was created or modified. When using these programs risks can become apparent like hidden text with sensitive information about a previous author in the case where you may have used a template to create the document. Other areas to remember would information on external parties and comments made by the current author that need not be seen. If left unchecked this could become embarrassing or even turn into a legal matter. (Metadata Risk.org, 2008).
Reference:
W3C, Metadata Activity Statement 2002
Retrieved 16/04/2008 from
http://www.w3.org/Metadata/Activity.html
The Metadata Activity Statement 2002 was used to highlight a more technical idea and background towards meta-data. To show what had been done in the past on a level other than simple tagged information. It makes it apparent how important meta-data is and the effort that some will go to in order to have a coordinated idea and set of rules to keep information organised. There have been a lot of web, programming and other professionals working hard in the past and continue today to keep standards in place.
W3C, Web Activity Statement 2008
Retrieved 16/04/2008 from
http://www.w3.org/2001/sw/Activity.html
The Web Activity Statement 2008 was used to continue my explanation of meta-data examples, however it also must be explained as it’s the W3C’s continued efforts from the previous Metadata Activity Statement 2002 protocols. The new standards needed to be added as web design, function and web applications have progressed enormously from 2002 and these standards will have to be updated to cope with demand. Without the hard work of W#C and those involved with their work, the future would be much harder for application and web developers.
Workshare: Metadata Risk.org 2008
Retrieved 1/05/2008 from
http://www.metadatarisk.org/document_security/dangers_of_docmetadata_overview.htm
I wanted to add the Workshare reference as I gained valuable knowledge that had not previously known. I had a very basic understanding about embedded information with Microsoft documents, however didn’t realise to the extent that creating such documents care was needed. This web page gives some excellent examples and pointers on how to minimize the problems with data popping up at times that would be embarrassing to say the least. Even though care needs to be taken regarding copyright information sometimes it doesn’t have to be plastered across a presentation either.
The impact of text-based real-time chat (concept #17)
Communicating in real-time with text enables a form of 'authoring of the self' that is similar to the processes of face-to-face speech but which is much more amenable to authorial control, experimentation and reflection. Further, text-based communication carries with it the possibility for multiple, differing conversations occurring simultaneously, relying on the ability of the human brain to deal with text much better than speech.
Text chat is a new way of communicating for those who have gone online for the first time. However for the experienced Internet user who may be relatively fast with a keyboard; it can be a valuable personal and business tool. Experiencing chat for the first time opens up an inquisitive mind to the fact that distance doesn’t have to be a barrier for communication, language is the last hurdle. In saying that however there are some websites like word2word.com, that list other sites for language courses online and applications that allow the translation of language within chat software such as www.webbe.com/. Once chat is familiar though, it becomes apparent how flexible this tool can be. Chat can be used at home, in the office or even on the go, not just when someone wants to meet up physically. The ability to converse with multiple windows and people makes it easier to catch-up with more friends, family or colleagues at the one time, and if the need arises, chat sessions can be saved and re-read at a later date.
The way chat is presented towards us in text format and on the screen, our brains seem to be able to comprehend this in a more organised way compared to speech. If three friends started to talk the same time, mostly likely all three conversations would not be heard correctly. With chat however all three conversations could be dealt with far easier typed out compared to spoken. Chat sessions can be created from either a chat room such as www.icq.com/icqchat, where one would login to a group and request to chat with others with in that chat group. Another form would be using a chat client like ICQ or MSN messenger. These days chat clients are more difficult to initiate chat sessions with unknown chatters as most people will block unknown users from even starting, usually a user will be known or found in a forum or chat group elsewhere beforehand.
A more recent addition to the chat genre, called video chat “allows you to easily see, hear, and chat with people all over the world through a web page” (iVideochat, 2008). Not unlike the mobile phone, chat has changed the way all of us communicate. The world seems much smaller with this simple yet effective idea. The unfortunate side to this technology has been apparent in recent times though, both personal information and the safety of children have become key questions by many. Websites like (http://www.securitysoft.com/) have information and software to aid in this negative trend online with chat rooms. Identity theft is also another reason to be careful as this is increasing every day. “guided tour of a hacker chat room where credit-card numbers, passwords, and PIN’s are bought and sold” (Stephen J. Dubner, 2007). Lastly I would like to touch on the fact that even though chat can bring other close, when required, it also keeps them far away at the same time. The removal of physical communication may play a large role in emotion and wellbeing for many users. Humans have been very social in the past but are moving towards personal isolation in the future.
Reference:
iVideochat (2008).
Retreived 14/04/08 from
http://www.ivideochat.com/
iVideochat was used as a reference to allude to the up and coming forms of chat available. I wanted to introduce a new way of using this communication media, not just from a chat client based environment, but from a web based point of view. I felt that showing how the chat genre had developed recently with video, trying not to emphasise the audio aspect as much as possible though. This points to the fact that even though video is brought into the chat circles, audio doesn’t have to be used; therefore using a chat window can still be quite powerful.
Stephen J. Dubner. (2007).
New York Times: Who Cares About Identity Theft?
Retreived 14/04/08 from
http://freakonomics.blogs.nytimes.com/2007/03/09/who-cares-about-identity-theft
The above reference and article is one way of pointing out how dangerous chat programs can be for the user who really doesn’t take any security precautions or may not be aware of their cyber surroundings online. It shows that by simply following steps requested from an email or directions from either a webpage or chat environment, how this can be disastrous. It also indicates the increasingly widespread problem this has become and the imagination boggles at what things will be like in the future regarding identity theft. Using sensible thinking and reliable updated security software can eliminate most identity theft matters.
Monday, April 28, 2008
Module 4 - Evaluating the Web
I have chosen Scootersales.com.au for the main reason that it’s based in NSW; however after checking the website more deeply I have found that they offer a more in depth view towards the customer and information on both new and used scooters available at their store. The site itself allows easy location of information and isn’t cluttered in any way. The site has some great link partners such as Vespa and Piaggio, which are long time legends in the scooter industry.
The great point to this website is the updated news and reviews on new scooters to the market that can assist in deciding on the best scooter for the type of riding one may do. Another great fact regarding this site is that it doesn’t close itself off to other scooter or motorcycle sellers as there are also links to these manufacturers or sales outlets, like a physical scooter webring. The website also has many photos of scooters for one to browse and compare. The site itself is geared around selling scooters however the extra information like reviews give off a more professional feel and draws one into the site more so that some of the other scooter websites within my search results. Even though this site ranked no1 in my results, I would more comfortable in dealing with this site first of all.
The great point to this website is the updated news and reviews on new scooters to the market that can assist in deciding on the best scooter for the type of riding one may do. Another great fact regarding this site is that it doesn’t close itself off to other scooter or motorcycle sellers as there are also links to these manufacturers or sales outlets, like a physical scooter webring. The website also has many photos of scooters for one to browse and compare. The site itself is geared around selling scooters however the extra information like reviews give off a more professional feel and draws one into the site more so that some of the other scooter websites within my search results. Even though this site ranked no1 in my results, I would more comfortable in dealing with this site first of all.
Thursday, April 24, 2008
Module 4 - Organising search information task
1.
http://www.scootersales.com.au/Home/tabid/36/Default.aspx
Scootersales.com.au is building to be the most exciting event to happen in scootering since its inception in this country. Scootersales.com.au is your one stop website for all your scootering needs.
Whether you are new to scooters or you have been riding for years, scootersales will provide all the up to date information and events to keep you in touch with what is the fastest growing form of two wheeled transport in this country.
2.
http://www.bikepoint.com.au/
Sell your bike at Australia's leading bike website - BikePoint.com.au. For more information, including costs, visit our sell your bike page.
3.
http://www.scootermarket.com.au/index.htm
If you’re shopping for a scooter, come to Scootermarket, the people with more scooter experience than any other shop in Australia! Scootermarket are scooter specialists – we do not sell cars or motorbikes. What we do sell is a range of top quality scooters from Europe and Asia. At Scootermarket we pride ourselves in presenting customers with the biggest and best brands available. This ensures great products and, most importantly, great backup and support from the manufacturer
Log.
I have recorded the above 3 best searches from the previous task. I'm unsure if this will be adequate for my future tasks now or my assignment, however I feel this is what I have chosen and now have to use these search words for the remaining tasks. On a positive side I will most likely have fun trying to use these search terms compared using easier more general terms.
I have used MS Word to record all the information referring back to these 3 best results. This includes the URL, the company name, picture or logo of the website and the first paragraph or the 'about' regarding the site.
I feel using MS Word is the easiest way to reacord this information as I can copy all relevant info into the one area. If I were to require user details to logon to the sites then I would have used my KeePass program but this is not required.
http://www.scootersales.com.au/Home/tabid/36/Default.aspx
Scootersales.com.au is building to be the most exciting event to happen in scootering since its inception in this country. Scootersales.com.au is your one stop website for all your scootering needs.
Whether you are new to scooters or you have been riding for years, scootersales will provide all the up to date information and events to keep you in touch with what is the fastest growing form of two wheeled transport in this country.
2.
http://www.bikepoint.com.au/
Sell your bike at Australia's leading bike website - BikePoint.com.au. For more information, including costs, visit our sell your bike page.
3.
http://www.scootermarket.com.au/index.htm
If you’re shopping for a scooter, come to Scootermarket, the people with more scooter experience than any other shop in Australia! Scootermarket are scooter specialists – we do not sell cars or motorbikes. What we do sell is a range of top quality scooters from Europe and Asia. At Scootermarket we pride ourselves in presenting customers with the biggest and best brands available. This ensures great products and, most importantly, great backup and support from the manufacturer
Log.
I have recorded the above 3 best searches from the previous task. I'm unsure if this will be adequate for my future tasks now or my assignment, however I feel this is what I have chosen and now have to use these search words for the remaining tasks. On a positive side I will most likely have fun trying to use these search terms compared using easier more general terms.
I have used MS Word to record all the information referring back to these 3 best results. This includes the URL, the company name, picture or logo of the website and the first paragraph or the 'about' regarding the site.
I feel using MS Word is the easiest way to reacord this information as I can copy all relevant info into the one area. If I were to require user details to logon to the sites then I would have used my KeePass program but this is not required.
Saturday, April 19, 2008
Boolean searching task
Boolean searching task (Google)
Using search words ‘New Scooters’ in Google with the format of the following revealed:
Results 1 - 10 of about 380,000 for +new +scooters. (0.19 seconds)
Results 1 - 10 of about 1,410,000 for +scooters -used. (0.43 seconds)
Results 1 - 10 of about 151,000 for +scooters -used +sydney. (0.25 seconds)
Results 1 - 10 of about 90,600 for +scooters +new +sydney. (0.31 seconds)
Results 1 - 10 of about 112,000 for +scooters +new +university. (0.31 seconds)
Even though it would be less likely to buy a New Scooter from a University, 112,000 hits were possible from the above search criteria. The search results were mostly about students with scooters or easy parking for those students that were going to ride scooters to University.
Using search words ‘New Scooters’ in Google with the format of the following revealed:
Results 1 - 10 of about 380,000 for +new +scooters. (0.19 seconds)
Results 1 - 10 of about 1,410,000 for +scooters -used. (0.43 seconds)
Results 1 - 10 of about 151,000 for +scooters -used +sydney. (0.25 seconds)
Results 1 - 10 of about 90,600 for +scooters +new +sydney. (0.31 seconds)
Results 1 - 10 of about 112,000 for +scooters +new +university. (0.31 seconds)
Even though it would be less likely to buy a New Scooter from a University, 112,000 hits were possible from the above search criteria. The search results were mostly about students with scooters or easy parking for those students that were going to ride scooters to University.
Saturday, April 12, 2008
Module 4 - Copernic Vs Google
To sum up the search experiment results from both Copernic (7 Search engines) and Google (The web and Australia), I have noticed that with the words used 'New Scooters' Google have been more promising than Copernic with usable results and closer to the mark to boot. The Copernic results pointed to cars sales where the Google results were located in Aus and were geared towards motorbike sales. If I were to look online for this type of item, Google would the first choice. I would like to experiment further with Copernic to see if other words yield better results.
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