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Thing 12

Review the widget you selected. Are you getting comfortable with embedding code? Do you belong to other online communities? Are relationships formed online as meaningful as face-to-face relationships? Why do you think MySpace and other social networking sites are so popular with kids today?

I posted a Michigan flag near the bottom of my landing page. I don't know if I'll keep it--it's a bit clunky and doesn't fit with the design of my page very well (neither does my counter). Additionally, it's made me a whore for Google as you can click to open Google ads on a tab.

This exercise seemed like busy-work to me. How does adding a widget add to my page besides more clutter? Maybe there is something more to my liking available, but as much as I adore The Simpsons, I don't think a "Simpsons quiz" widget will make my blog any better than it is.

I realize I'm pretty critical about this 23 Things project--but I think that's a good thing--most of the other people seem to think most things are "Great" and "Cool." I am learning things, however, even if it most of it seems to be negative.

Do I belong to other online communities? Define "belong." Do I participate in reading and posting? Yes. Do I know the other posters? No, not in any meaningful way. Online communities are helpful in pruning the sugar from your arguments, but they aren't a replacement for "real" people.

MySpace and others of its ilk are probably popular because they extend the digital reach of our youngsters. Too many would rather stay inside than explore their yard or neighborhood because they can chat, text, and post inane and vulgar videos. Why engage in the messy and hard work of building real relationships when you can simply delete someone you don't like from your friends list? Convenience is King!

Comments

RESA 23Things said…
You're right - many (if not, most) of the widgets are pretty frivolous and useless. But you might some day want to use something like a survey that could be very useful.

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