What Are the Benefits of Computer Technology & the Internet Regarding Communication?
Communication is the key to life, allowing us to express emotions, concerns, and memories. The Internet, and the computer technology that allows it to exist, has altered the way we communicate. Friends and family who move away can still be contacted on a regular basis. Email accounts, social networking sites, and instant messenger clients have taken communication to a new level in the 21st century.
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Email
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The post office and telephones were once the ideal way of connecting with a friend or family member who lived across the state, the country, or the world. The invention of email has revolutionized the way we send messages. Email accounts allow you to send messages to anyone in the world with the push of a button, as long as they have an email account as well. Emailing eliminates the need to buy postage stamps or pay high prices for long distance calls. You can attach documents, photos, and Web links in an email. Emails can be sent morning, Noon and night, allowing you to connect with another regardless of time.
Facebook
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Unless you've been living under a rock, odds are you have at least heard of Facebook, the social network site created by Mark Zuckerberg in 2003. Initially called Facemash, Facebook facilitates the creation of a personal profile page, allowing your friends and family members to keep up with every aspect of your social life. You can also create a Fan Page to promote a business or brand name. As of 2011, Facebook is free to join. Similar social networking sites exist, such as MySpace and Friendster, allowing you to share photos, music and more. After creating a Facebook account, you can send messages to all of your friends at one time, speeding up the communication process.
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Communication on the Go
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Computer technology has infiltrated our phones, with most mobiles capable of having Internet access through Wi-Fi. This same technology allows you to have Internet access on your laptop computer. The ability to take the Internet with you allows you to send emails or check your Facebook page from anywhere. Cellphones and laptops can utilize Skype, an application that turns your device into a video phone. You can hold meetings, share documents, and finalize strategies with business partners, regardless if you're within the same country or not.
Warning
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The advancement of computer technology and the Internet brings with it safety concerns, especially for children. Cyber-bullying has become a 21st century problem. Much like traditional bullying, cyber-bullying is intended to threaten or harm an individual. Bullies will send threatening messages to their victims Facebook or email account. You should always be cautious when talking to someone online you have just met. Individuals do not always represent themselves accurately online, and may lie about their age, job status, criminal background, or intentions. Never release your home address to someone you have befriended online until you know for sure you can trust them. Never release your personal account information to a new online friend, regardless of trust.
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References
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