I am quite nervous about writing openly on a blog in fear of offending or upsetting anyone which really isn’t my aim; however as a Cyber Pal recently said it is one of the beauties of the Internet being able to share thoughts and points of view with others.
A blog is a good a platform as any to do such things.
The internet can be such a useful tool. Of course like anything else it has its pros and cons and you have to weigh them up.
I have recently listened to a group of people talking about the pros and cons of the Internet and been told no one in our local area uses it.
I often wonder how people can make that sweeping statement and what research they have actually done to support it other than asking those who actually don’t use the Internet.
Of course it stands to reason that some people don’t even have a computer net alone venture on-line no one is arguing that point.
I think people tend to forget not all of us live in close proximity to our neighbours and it is not actually a matter of hanging over the fence or stopping in the street to catch up, some people work and are not seen from one weeks end to the next,
I am a firm believer that the Internet should not be used as a replacement for people communicating with each other in the traditional way but should be used to enhance communication and make information easily available especially for those that don’t have the opportunity to briefly bump into a neighbour for a quick chin wag and a quick update.
Perhaps I am the only one. "I doubt It" but when I am away from home I do tend to catch up with personal emails and local goings on even if it is to pass an evening away in yet another hotel. I have alerts set up on both email and mobile type gadgets.
To be told no one will keep up with home whilst on a train or away from the local area once again suggests those that do not travel for work have not asked those that do.
Of course I keep up to date when away from home . I like to know whats going on.
I think the fear of the Internet is probably the lack of knowledge , the bad news stories "which the press tend to have a field day with" plus the scare mongering from those unwilling to accept there is an alternative way to reaching people they can't normally reach.
I just think it is about giving people a choice not sacrificing one form of communication for another.
As I was also told no one has commented which appears to measure the success of a website or blog. Its not about who comments and who doesn't its about those that that read and perhaps don't feel the need to comment. and giving those that do feel they can comment the opportunity.
Thanks Cyber Pal I have been trying for almost two years to open comments up. I eventually found it.
As I was also told no one has commented which appears to measure the success of a website or blog. Its not about who comments and who doesn't its about those that that read and perhaps don't feel the need to comment. and giving those that do feel they can comment the opportunity.
Thanks Cyber Pal I have been trying for almost two years to open comments up. I eventually found it.
I agree :)
ReplyDeleteThose people that were saying that no one in our local area has the internet must be living under a rock. There are so many young family and young people that live in Earlswood and i know that they would not go without the internet. All you have to do is walk down the road and let your smart phone pick up all the wi-fi network out there. :)
Still a great blog by the way loving all the infomation about the going on latley.
James.
James I think living under a rock is a little to strong. I just think a lack of knowledge and perhaps fear of the unknown is the problem. There is the fact that some people don't have a computer for one reason and another, however these are the same people who may be able to communicate in traditional methods due to being at home or about a little more than those who are working. I think there should be a balance. I also don't think people understand you don't need a computer or laptop and a mobile phone can keep you up to date quite easily. Thanks for the comments Carrie
DeleteYou don't need a laptop, PC or smart phone to use the internet; many new cable & sky providers are tapping your connection into the internet, which is why we can get video-on-Demand or use catch-up TV services.
ReplyDeleteThere is a general lack of knowledge about the internet and the many uses it provides. Would the same people who state nobody uses it 'want' to use it if they knew just a fraction of the benefits it can provide?
Maybe a free internet awareness evening could be held for the community?
Hello Brett
DeleteI must admit I am lost when it comes to video on demand. But do use the internet to catch up on programs I have missed. When speed allows.
I think an internet awareness evening is a very good idea. Even if it is for those that do use it to some degree but are a little nervous of exploring and using it for more than the odd email. Thanks for the comments and the ideas
Carrie