NC Digital Media Computing

SQA Unit DW7J 11Social Software

E-communication Methods

Russell TaylorLecturer in Computing & Business Studies

Instant MessagingDifferent from E-mail

Web 2.0 DevelopmentLargely Broadband-dependent but some

communication possible with dial-up connectionsMessaging in real timeUsually different software used from E-mail clientFunctionality overlapping E-mail and extending it:

Audio Video File Exchange

What is Instant MessagingPrivate Messaging – unless you want to share itUses a ‘client’ program e.g. MSN MessengerUses ‘Presence Information’ to inform you who is

onlineIM developed from proper real-time typing (where

typos and corrections were seen by the recipient) – like a telephone conversation, to only seeing the last line when a new one is started like an exchange of letters – more like e-mail

Status messages can also be set telling communication group where you are /when you will be online

IM and Where it Came FromBulletin Boards / UsenetMSN / Yahoo ChatAllows use of a contacts listNormally one-to-one

With use of Groups chat can be extended but usually only text can be transmitted

Skype & MSN AudioAdvantages

Make free telephone calls – worldwideNeed same clients operating at either endCan include multiple people at same timeUseful for like-minded groups to keep in touch

Clubs Workmates University Alumni Friends and Relatives

Skype & MSN Audio (2)Disadvantages

Both people need to be using same systemBoth need to be using system at same time‘Conferences’ can be risky – with fraudsters and

other criminals lurking looking for information from you e.g. to steal identity

IM – Video at CollegeUsed to be expensive to set-up infrastructureNow cheap and easy to use

Equipment required: Web Cam PC Internet Connection – preferably Broadband

Example shown: Marratech

IM - Video at HomeWindows Live Messenger – free

Videophone calls freeTour of Windows Live Messenger

Functions:Free video and voice callsShare files and FoldersOffline and text messaging

Unlike Skype – landline and mobile calls are supported, text messaging to mobiles. Music and photos can be shared by dragging & dropping!

TasksIn a Word table

Review the online demos of latest version of MSN Messenger

List the features of the latest version of MSN Messenger in this new Word table

Create hyperlinks to on-line demos and useful pages in your table

Keep this for your Portfolio

ChatFull Name ‘Internet Relay Chat’ or IRCAvailable since 1988Part of the Internet that predates the WWWLets users communicate simultaneously

Hidden dangers – identity fraud

See www.chatdanger.com for advice on Internet Safety

Facilities of Chat RoomJoining – existing Chat room for

shared interestsIf none - start a new Chat roomPost comments, invite commentsRespond to others commentsInvite on-line users to join in a

private chat

Wiki and Moodle ‘Chat’Discussion forums

Respond to invitePractice use of Wiki DiscussionPractice use of Moodle Discussion