FACEBOOKFACEBOOK

““More Than Just a Social More Than Just a Social Communication Tool” Communication Tool”

Facebook’s Brief, but Storied Facebook’s Brief, but Storied HistoryHistory

• While Facebook has only been in operation for slightly less than 5 years, during its time on the Web 2.0 scene, it has made an enormous impact….

Its FoundingIts Founding

Facebook was founded by Harvard University graduate students and it was originally intended to be used only by students registered at this school. Quickly, however, FB expanded to most Ivy League schools and then on to the majority of universities in Canada and the United States. Over time, Facebook expanded beyond, strictly, the educational realm.

Its UsersIts Users

• Amazingly, there are over 100 Million users that are currently registered to the Facebook program and that number is growing daily!

It’s UsesIt’s Uses

• Social Communication, through:• Picture sharing• Instant chatting• Mass Developed Messages• Gift Applications• A Platform to Post Personal Information• Blogging

Recent ControversyRecent Controversy

• Facebook, within the last few weeks, has changed its lay-out and many of its tools and applications. Unfortunately, for its developers, these changes have been met with much criticism. Complaints such as increased confusion with its basic functions and too much clutter with new advertisements have been stated by many of the program’s users. There’s even a group in existence on FB that expresses its opposition to the new design. A Monster has been created!

Why I Like it?Why I Like it?

• It provides easy access to friends for purposes such as arranging plans

• It allows for affordable means of long-distance communication

Why Else Do I Like It?Why Else Do I Like It?

• It provides me with the ability to become a member of special groups that can enlighten my views on personal and professional interests

Facebook and its Academic UsesFacebook and its Academic Uses

• Facebook is very user friendly and fun – it can be utilized as an academic tool and will guarantee student engagement! How?

• Practice digital imaging• Write detailed written accounts• Engage in critical written debate-like

exchanges• Practice research skills by using FB’s

many group information options.

Facebook FactsFacebook Facts

• 100 Million Users worldwide• Free usage with registered account• Net income – approximately 50 million in

2008, thus far• Source of Income – Banner Ads from

large agencies and corporations• Very protected and secure site

Benefits / DrawbacksBenefits / Drawbacks

• Easy to Use• Fun• Interactive• Safer than Myspace and other Social

Communication sites, as you can control who views your information at all times

• A little slower now with its new lay-out• Chat Message Window system is often erratic

Should You Join?Should You Join?

• YES! These are just a few of the people from my past that I have been reunited with through FB … Its search function can help you locate long, lost friends!