The new Web.

Web 2.0 is a term introduced by O'Reilly Media in 2003 and refers to the second generation of the World Wide Web. It provides a level user interaction that was not available before. Thanks to Web 2.0 the Internet has evolved from a collection of static pages into a much more dynamic and interconnected network, with "online communities" and software services that make it even easier to share information and foster self-publishing, participation and collaboration.

Some examples of features considered to be part of Web 2.0 are blogs, YouTube and wikis. In this article by Peter Duffy you will find a description of each of them, its characteristics and educational benefits, and strategies for using them in teaching and learning. Social networks are also an important part of this Web evolution.

Introducing Web 2.0 advances into our classrooms can be helpful to our students – members of the Y or Z generations (See post 6) –, who benefit from the effective inclusion of technology. This kind of sites improve knowledge construction since, in a Web 2.0 environment, learning is not only to acquire but also to create; we can learn and comprehend knowledge through constructing it. Wikis are an example a new feature that emphasizes the process of knowledge co-construction.

Web 2.0 also enhances learners’ learning motivation. Traditional teaching does not satisfy the needs of Digital natives anymore. Even when using a computer, students will get bored if they are not motivated. By using Web 2.0 we can combine learning with games, enhance interaction and communication with others and create more opportunities for social contact.

What is more, by using blogs or social networks students can demonstrate critical thinking, take creative risks and design elements. In doing so, the students acquire creative, critical, communicative, and collaborative skills that may be useful to them in both scholarly and professional contexts.

As it can be seen, Web 2.0 technology is here to make our Internet experience easier, better and more social. As teachers, we should not overlook its features but rather try to make use of them to enhance knowledge co-construction, collaborative learning and our student’s critical and creative thinking.