Internet, Information and Interaction

As the internet has evolved the way we access and consume information has changed significantly. Slowly the days of finding information on topics of interest are disappearing. With all the social features of the internet information now finds us. RSS aggregators and websites are becoming smarter and more accessible through mobile technologies, on the fringe of moving closer to the conception of web 3.0. In the web 2.0 environments the social aspect of obtaining information can sometimes be more of a hindrance than a help in educational endeavors in which the quality and validity of the information is of high importance. Individuals must be skilled in differentiating quality sources from those that are poor, biased or deceitful. Furthermore, the access of information is now immediate, any time, and anywhere as mobile technologies become more powerful and able to access virtually every aspect of media available on the internet. Someone who is curious about a whether or not a store is offering a good deal on a particular product can quickly compare the cost of the product to other stores right there on the spot, and even get reviews from customers or experts.
Because of the plethora of “right here right now” information the use of censorship, right or wrong, is becoming an effort in futility. Society is slowly finding that proper education is a more viable means of protecting individuals from such an open access world of information. This does not mean simply educating children and young adults, but also parents and teachers. Parents and teachers who are well equipped with the knowledge to navigate the internet safely will also be better equipped to protect their students and children from inappropriate content and individuals that may seek to harm them.