How do you judge the value of expertise on the Web? Does it differ from your notion of expertise in face-to-face settings? Why or why not?
The value of web expertise is immense for users to successfully navigate a globally connected society, and excel in jobs that demand proficiency in web 2.0 technology tools to deliver instruction in educational settings or program software in business. Web expertise differs from face-to-face (F2F) expertise in that the former requires skill in searching and navigating web pages/applications to find information whereas the latter requires command of speech, tone, and body language to convey information, knowledge, cultural artifacts or conversation. In order tor refine F2F skills, one must practice more art than science. These individuals tend to understand behavioral cues, patterns, and mnemonic devices to create a story or discourse to guide a conversation. Great orators and instructors of the Socratic method often practice these methods to deliver instruction.
However, the emergence of pervasive technology in mainstream American culture requires that educators, government agencies, and businesses excel in web expertise to collaborate, meet, transact business, publish information and scholarship, as well as transform access to healthcare with digital records. The value of web expertise may eventually surpass the value of F2F expertise based only on current trends in our culture. Sooner or later, every school and student will be digitally connected and the possibility of open access to courses in the future suggests students will need digital literacy and web expertise far more than F2F expertise. While the skill of F2F expertise always has a place in the arts and theater, the sciences/government/businesses need to adapt to the technology revolution and place an emphasis on Web expertise more than F2F expertise.
1 comment:
Does that scare you that one day the value of web expertise may surpass that of face to face interactions? As much as I love and use technology, I don't want it taking over everything. Even as a student, I strongly dislike online courses. This one is interesting, although fast-paced, but I would rather see my peers face to face and share with them in person sometimes. Even in the business world, individuals are still going to meet with people in person from time to time so I think it's important we all put our tablet/ smartphones/ laptops down and practice our socializing skills ;).
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