Tip #2418 - Social Network
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Q:
What is a social network?
A:
That's a great
question, because you might in a social network right now and not even
know it. A social network is also known as a virtual community and they
are related to profile sites. They are just certain Web sites that help
bring people together so they can make new friends, chat, share interests,
share ideas, etc.
It's
amazing how many social network sites are available on the Web today and
more and more are popping up each day. As I mentioned above, social networks
are related to profile sites, which are sites that allow you to create
a profile for yourself for others to view. I know many of you may be thinking
about online dating sites or something similar, but that's not exactly
what a social network is all about. (Online dating sites can be considered
social networks, but there's so much more to them than that).
You
can make a profile for yourself and include a picture if you want, some
of your background information, your hobbies, etc. Other people your age
can find you and you can make new e-mail friends all over the world. It's
a fun way to spend time on your computer, because you can meet all kinds
of different people and learn all about them as well. And, you don't have
to tell anyone anything you don't want to. You can be as open or private
as you wish.
Some
of the more popular social network sites today are:
-
Bebo - this site allows you to share
photos, stories and even your own journal with friends and family, either
privately or publicly.
- Classmates
- some of you may have heard of this site before. It helps you find
your old friends from high school. You can search for them, find out
where they're living, what they're up to and keep in touch with them
forever.
- Friendster
- this site helps bring people together from around the world who
have similar interests
- MySpace
- this is one of the more popular sites on the Internet today. You can
create a profile here and even post a blog if you want. Other people
can also leave you messages on your page. It's pretty neat.
- Yahoo
360 - this site allows you to make your own personal Web page with
a journal, pictures, favorite links, etc. You can then share your page
with your friends and also view theirs. You do need a Yahoo! ID and
password for this site.
Of
course, if you don't feel comfortable being a part of a social network,
there is nothing wrong with that, but the option is always there if you
do change your mind. Also, parents should keep in mind that some of these
sites are popular hang out places for predators. As parents, you should
always be involved in your child's computer activities and know which
sites they are visiting.
If
you decide to use one of these sites, make sure you're comfortable with
each person you're talking to. These sites are a fun way to meet new people
and learn new things, but you can never be too careful.
~
Erin
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