Image via WikipediaI've recently joined Google's new social network Google+, and so far it seems to have distinguished itself from its competitors. Whether you choose Facebook, Twitter, or some other service, the ability to find and share ideas with others is a blessing you shouldn't overlook.I've mentioned before that Web 2.0 signifies a time when the Internet changed from being a one-way deliverer of information to a two-way exchange of ideas, creations, and services. Web 3.0 can describe the refinement of the internet into a more personalized experience; for instance, suggestions being offered to you based on your previous browsing history. Google+ is a social network tailored to give you greater control over who and what you share with others. Instead of sharing posts or photos publicly or to a set of followers, Google+ allows you to place your social contacts into different circles of specific interests. For example, you may have a circle for your family and one for teachers; each could have their own content tailored to what you want.
An interesting thing happened as I was following a post in one of my edtech circles. A person was sharing an article that warned of this narrowing or personalization of communication. The argument was that our social networks should expand our views rather than limit us to like-minded people. And then, after several comments on the article were exchanged, Paula posted her view - in Portuguese. None of us knew what she was saying so I shared an online application called Google Translate with the others. We were then able to transfer her text from Portuguese to English and continue the conversation with her. Google Translate has its limitations, but I was able to send messages in Portuguese to Paula and she was able to understand what I meant. Truly amazing to think that I can communicate with someone in Brazil in her own tongue.
So as the Web continues to develop, keep in mind the next generation of communication that is on its way. Communication 4.0 will be when we can socialize with the World in any language. We won't have to limit ourselves to a particular circle, country, or language. I don't know if that's edutopia, but it sounds pretty good.
