The Internet is coined for ‘Inter-network’ i.e. a vast computer communication network that allows computers to connect together and share information. In short, it implies the information sharing, financial transaction, real time communication, the online community and cyber culture that can be accessed on the Web via this internetworking of these computers. |
- the Internet is free to access to anyone, anytime
- the Internet is interactive which contain any kind of information available on the Web.
- the Internet is a multimedia venue which include multi-format i.e. text, sound and video clips as well as new languages and communication methods are invented through the Internet.
- the Internet allows hypertexts which can be accessed via website for further information by clicking on a hyperlink in an article.
- the Internet is a global network, to which everyone is permitted to connect anywhere, anytime.
- the Internet makes people have different experiences and learns the lifestyles, values and problem solving abilities in a virtual space.
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1) Information Retrieval
The retrieval function of websites enables the simple approach to vast information on the internet. Since web administrators all over the world continue to gather and update data on the web, we are able to retrieve more information which available on the internet. However, overwhelming of information overflow makes it difficult to gather the right information we need.
2) Communication
The Internet helps build rapport regardless of time and space. We can communicate to other people and express our ideas and opinion freely on the Web anywhere, anytime.
- Email is a method of sending and receiving messages over the internet. This communication channel is more efficient compared to traditional communication as sending an email is much easier and faster way to dispatch mails. Unfortunately, however, malicious emails including spam, mail bombs and email viruses also have evolved rapidly.
- Instant messenger ensures the transmission of real-time messages which we can exchange information efficiently by using a messenger service.
- Online community is an informal place where those with similar hobbies and interests gather together. Anyone can become a member of a certain community or withdraw his/her membership. Cyber clubs can be well maintained within the context of voluntary participation and equality among their members.
3) Leisure Activities
- Online games are available on the internet with wide array of games with multi players features. The playing of games is fun and exciting to relieve stress and tension. However, online games can lead to games addiction and arouse social anxiety.
- Online Entertainment Contents are provided through the Internet such as listening to radio stations and watching television programs on the Web. This kind of contents may lure Internet users into illegal downloading and copyright infringement
4) E-Commerce
Products and services can be purchased online without actually visiting stores. These services lead to price reductions but with the growth of e-commerce, shopping addiction and e-commerce fraud are becoming increasingly prevalent.
5) My Own Media
The Internet allows us to create novel, innovative media such as blogs, Internet broadcasting.
- Blogs are becoming very popular and influential as a personal communication medium to express ideas and opinion.
- Internet broadcasting stations are non commercial broadcasting which are easy to open and shut down, and publicly broadcast programs at a regular time. However, uncensored adult content is the most serious issue concerning Internet broadcasting.
- User Created Content refers to various kinds of media content produced by end-users via the use of digital cameras and camera phones. However it may unknowingly violate copyrights and portrait rights, legal and ethical issues will be continuously raised if the contents are not properly vetted.
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