social networks affordances & practice UF Libraries Expo April 15, 2008 2:00-2:30 PM EST

who am I? • Christopher D. Sessums • Director, Distance Education, College of Education • Instructor, Educational Technology, College of Education • Ph.D. candidate -- educational technology • http://eduspaces.net/csessums/weblog

What is an online social network? Complex, adaptive systems Norms Loose and adaptive Rigid/prescribed Relational Spontaneous Purposeful allow individuals to construct a public or semi-public profile within a bounded system, articulate a list of other users with whom they share a connection, and view and traverse their list of connections and those made by others within the system. (boyd & ellison, 2007)

allow individuals to

construct a public or semi-public profile within a bounded system,

articulate a list of other users with whom they share a connection, and

view and traverse their list of connections and those made by others within the system. (boyd & ellison, 2007)

What are basic characteristics of a social network? Shared/public profile Friends Messaging Media sharing options Widely accessible Support group forming Supports pre-exisiting social relations

How have social networks impacted society? Sharing Organizing Finding content Finding people

How do I use a social network? Formal/Informal Purpose - personal/professional Commitment Participation Share Connect Knowledge Base - Filter/Hub Feedback Fun

Why do people use a social networks? Keep up friendships -- facebook Making new friends -- match.com Bowing to the social pressure of friends or colleagues -- facebook An altruistic impulse -- wikipedia A carnal impulse -- "other," erotica, exhibitionism A creative impulse -- photography, videography, screenwriter Affinity grouping -- ball team, knitting circle, fandom Validation -- contributing something meaningful

What does participation cost? Money Time Effort Attention

What would you like to see in an online social networking application? Do you have a favorite? Describe why you like it. What would you change about it?

Questions? [email_address] http://eduspaces.net/csessums/weblog