Abstract This paper examines how the teen pregnancy phenomenon simply does not go away, no matter how much parents and schools and communities attempt to eliminate it and how there is no ethnic or racial group, or religious group, which is immune from the problem. It looks at how the problem is seemingly irresolvable and how it is exacerbated by the increasing availability of sexually-explicit materials and programs, including books, magazines, movies, cable TV programs, X-rated Internet Web sites and chat rooms, and more. It discusses how the responsibility for the sexual behavior of teenagers will, ultimately, always come down to the parents and families and how churches, schools, community health organizations, media agencies, and other concerned volunteers and professionals should certainly coordinate more closely to combat the problem.
From the Paper "Hard as communities and agencies try, they seem to fail at stopping teen pregnancies, albeit, between 1991 and 1999, fewer girls in "every state" gave birth (Wetzstein, 2001), bringing the national teenage rate to its lowest level in 14 years. This drop, according to Child Trends, was possibly due to HIV / AIDs education programs, which frightened teens; dying from AIDS is indeed a more serious problem than just becoming pregnant. Still, over a million teen pregnancies a year indicates that the problem is not going away."
Abstract This paper explains that computer-aided instruction (CAI) and computer-based training (CBT) have provided both graduates and undergraduates the drill-and-practice systems, that have replaced teachers in routine coaching duties. The author points out that, despite reservations being made by a number of researchers, nearly every higher education institute in the United States is in favor of distance-learning programs because they can cut costs. The paper states that the Internet will become an inseparable part of all the educational systems in the new millennium.
Table of Contents
Statement of Purpose
Search Strategies
The Approach Utilized
Data Gathering and Utilizing Method
Keywords Used
Introduction
Computer-Aided Instruction and Computer-Based Training
Internet Impact: Distance Learning, Cost Reduction, and Increased Access
Calendar of Class Sessions
Virtual Office Hours
Chat Rooms
Video and Movie Clips
"Live" Computer Programs
Two-way Interactive Communication
On-demand Communication Protocol
Wide Communication Bandwidth
Intelligent Tutoring Systems
Interactive Learning Environments
Internet Impact: Turning Expensive Stand-Alone Systems into Cheaper Distance-Learning Technologies
Conclusion
From the Paper "The impact of Internet on the traditional learning system has raised doubts in the minds of the several researchers. John and Donald assert, ?Some persons are so addicted to its use to the extent they have actually flunked out of college, lost their marriage partners, become mentally sick, given up their jobs, and decreased their human contacts. Furthermore, one more researcher asserts that having access to the Internet does not assure that students will use the information accessible to them from the internet will be used to gain useful knowledge."
Abstract This paper studies the increasing need for video conferencing within the business world today. The paper begins by examining business requirements for this technology and looking at the notion of globalization. The paper then provides a detailed analysis of each of the types of technology, including internet relay chat and internet telephony. The paper concludes with a discussion of the relevance of video conferencing within the modern business setting, including its applicability and limitations.
From the Paper "Developing globalization and severe competition demonstrate and emphasize the need for alternative methods of communication in the world of today. It is true that, as far as the dynamics of business are concerned, there have not been many changes, but the demand for a less expensive means of communication than face-to-face meetings is what has brought about a varied number of new methods and techniques of communication, some of these being video conferencing including video and text chatting, web conferencing, and web presentations and collaborations. These modern means of communication involve an increased accuracy and also a faster speed and freedom from any unwonted communication mistakes."
Abstract This paper explains that, in the 1970s, the innovative educational theorist J.E. Kemp created a model of instructional design, which stressed the need for teachers to create a lesson plan tailored to the needs of individual learners. The author points out that, technologically, much has changed since the evolution of Kemp's model, such as the development of the Internet and the explosion of opportunities for online learning. The paper describes that the Internet can help teachers achieve Kemp's learning objectives in many ways. The author relates that, rather than having to worry about scheduling individual meetings to discuss course content and student objectives, students and teachers can be in constant one-on-one contact through message boards and chat rooms.
From the Paper "Even in 1971, Kemp's stated purpose was to be innovative, and make the maximum use of technology his era afforded, such as films, television and audiovisual materials. This is why today the Jerrold Kemp Design Model's holistic approach to instructional design is ideally suited for web-based course instruction. Virtually every possible individual factor in the learning environment us taken into consideration when creating a lesson plan--there is no concept of a generic learner, rather every learner, and thus every class is unique."
Abstract This paper explains that many professors dislike teaching distance learning courses because they feel that they can not get to know their students; however, many of these professors also have a fear of using new teaching technologies. The author points out that distant learning technology via the Internet includes a simple web site, an e-mail address plus the use of chat rooms or other on line get-togethers where students can share their thoughts and feelings. The paper concludes that university professors should be taught how to use technology correctly to ensure successful teaching of distance learning courses so that their abilities and wisdom can be utilized and imparted to various students via the Internet and other forms of distance learning.
From the Paper "Asking the students to rate a teacher's web site, response time to e-mail and other issues would give a reasonable assessment using qualitative methods of the effectiveness that a particular instructor has in using technology skills. The impact of these technology skills is a little harder to measure. Whether students feel as though they have gotten something out of the course and how much of that relates to the technology that was employed during the course and being required to do things on the Internet is one way that this can be measured."
Abstract This research paper investigates the impact of e-communities. It defines what an e-community is and how a virtual community differs from a "real" community. It also looks at the ways in which virtual and "real" communities are similar. The paper then provides some examples of and specific characteristics of e-communities and looks at some of the dangers and mis-communications in regard to e-communities. The paper contains charts and figures.
Table of Contents:
Abstract
Abbreviations
I. Introduction: The "Dawn" of E-communities
Virtual or E-Communities
Hypothesis
Research Questions
An E-Community Consists of . . .
Aims and Objectives
Scope of Study
Following Chapters
II. Literature Review: The Community in E-Communities
"Being" a Member of an E-community
E-community Components
Examples of E-Communities
Concerns & Dangers involved in E-communities
Potential Benefits of E-communities
Emerging E-communities
Communication: Central to Community Life
Dating E-communities
E-community Chat Rooms
III. Methodology: Making "Sense" of E-Communities
Representing Communities
Explanation of Approach
Questionnaire Answers
Investigation Factors
IV. Analysis: Estimations of E-Communities' Impact
Composites Clarified
E-communities Depicted
The Battle for the Hearts and Minds
Top 10 E-communities
Family Depiction
Data and Charts
V. Summary: Consensus of E-Communities Contributions
E-Community Reflections
Summary
Aims and Objectives
Discussion
Limitations and Recommendations
For Further Consideration
On and Off Line
Conclusion Regarding Verdict for Hypothesis
Limitations and Recommendations
For Further Consideration
Appendix
From the Paper "One way eBay nurtures trust is through its reputation system while its success has been attributed to its commitment to developing a sense of community. eBay attracts and retains buyers and sellers to its site by affecting exchanges that are satisfactory to both buyers and sellers. eBay also provides information, learning opportunities, as well as personal development pursuits and fun, and relaxation. As e-bay implements specific strategies, along with the particular social psychological framework noted by Scott and Johnson (2005) to be described by Beenan et al. (2004), the e-community ensures individuals' responses are acknowledged, while they may also be recognized and rewarded. In August 2004, the average eBay user remained on the site for one hour and 48 minutes, which in 2040 denoted the longest time duration of any Web site."
Abstract The paper discusses how the environment became a global concern at the end of the 20th century. The paper also discusses the newfound ability to interact with people instantaneously around the world using the Internet relay chat (IRC). The paper then discusses a change from the end of the century that is not positive, namely the fact that progress in eliminating hunger is slow. The paper quotes the report "Are we Really Reducing Poverty?" by Vandemoortele that argues that global poverty figures under-estimate global poverty and over-estimate poverty reduction. The paper concludes that the major implication of today's global world is that people of all backgrounds and cultures are going to have to get along with each other.
From the Paper "As the last century ended, the world continued at a faster and faster pace with changes occurring rapidly and regularly. It was just an indication of what would be happening in the next decades. Many of the major changes that took place at that time dealt with the new concept of "A World Without Borders," where countries everywhere were being impacted by similar issues and challenge and communication and transportation allowed people to quickly move interact with others on the other side of the globe."
Abstract This paper explains how the Information Highway will affect the society in a manner that cannot yet be imagined and instead of a means of uniting the world the author feels that the technological revolution is creating a divide within society furthering social stratification and changing the dynamics of interpersonal relationships.
From the paper:
"As the communications revolution reaches its climax the society is increasingly becoming virtual. Millions of Internet users are logging one every day and interacting with each other over the Internet. Where once socialization was limited within borders today, the society is increasingly becoming borderless as the Internet creates a global world. Chat systems like MSN and AOL Messenger, ICQ and MIRC have captured the people's imagination and no longer is there a need to have personal face-to-face meetings. The interactive software's allow a user to have web conferences, meetings and chat with more than one person at a time. Society is becoming impersonal as concepts like 'cyber love' and 'cyber world' emerge. "
Abstract This paper details problems with the Internet such as hacking, obtaining credit card and personal information, and the dangers of chat.
From the Paper "Although the information super highway is known as the "world beyond our own" and the information found on the Internet is almost infinite, the information superhighway is becoming one of the biggest headaches the world has ever known. Along the lines of surfing the information superhighway just about anything can be found from bomb making to how to plant a flower garden, but while you are surfing the net you may be leaving yourself wide open to unknown persons obtaining every bit of information about yourself. Everything from your social security number to the credit card numbers, and including your bank account numbers are waiting just for the right knowledgeable person to look for it. You have to learn to protect yourself and your personal belongings such as your personal information."
Abstract This paper examines the local goth subculture in Montreal, and attempts to clarify the mood and character of the scene, while showing that media portrayals of participants have been grossly inflammatory. The paper includes interviews, photos, maps and a glossary.
Setting The Scene
Cast of Characters
On Location
The Nature of The Beast
Defining Goth
History of the Movement
The Heart of the Matter
Available Materials
Early Observations
Quiet Chats The Fight Scene
The Aryans
The ARA
Showdown at the OK Corral
That's a Wrap
From the Paper "Attempting to define what "Goth" is was one of the most daunting tasks I was faced with. I came up with at least as many different definitions as there were people I asked. One thing that I noticed is that within the Goth community as a whole, there are many sub-categories based on look, musical taste, political view and personality. However, there were a few common themes which ran in virtually all the many definitions of Goth that I was exposed to."
Abstract This paper takes a look at the new phenomenon of text messages on cellular phones especially as they relate to teenage culture.
From the Paper "The negative effects of the mobile phone are also becoming evident with regard to teenagers, the champion texters. There is some concern within the teaching profession that literacy skills are being lost, as vowels and grammar are ignored. While parents share these fears, they are encouraged by suggestions that text messaging may be safer than voice calls, as the mobile is not held close to the head when writing, sending or receiving SMS."
Abstract This pape looks at what kind of pornographic material in being transmitted via the Internet, and how available and accessible is child pornography to these pedophiles. The author discusses the methods the government, parents and communities have undertaken to protect children from this rapidly increasing sub-culture.
From the Paper "Since the widespread use of the Internet began, public safety, specifically relating to the safety of children has become a major issue and highly debated topic. The Internet has become an international gateway for child predators to produce and distribute child pornography. It allows these people not only to have limitless boundaries for its promotion, advanced technology for its production, but to be able to form a virtual community, hosting forums, newsgroups and providing vast resources for their fetishes. It is suggested that not only are these sites readily available and easily accessible for public viewing, but are also being protected under legislation. Various methods of exposing and deterring these predators have been created, ranging from anti-child pornography websites to parental control software to new and stricter laws and harsher punishments both for the consumers and creators. It is interesting to examine what is myth and what is truth regarding this phenomenon. Realistically, what kind of pornographic material in being transmitted via the Internet? Why? How available and accessible is child pornography to these "kiddy pornophiles""
Abstract This paper examines the advanced method of communication available these days in most offices - e-mail, fax, teleconferences, chat programs, SMS, etc. It further examines how these forms of technology assist in the transferring of information in almost real time and the effect this has on "office gossip". The writer concludes that even with all these forms of communication available, the inter-personal conversation of relaying gossip is still a favorite.
From the Paper "Technology has vastly changed the means of communication over a relatively short period of time. Along with these changes in communication technology came new ways for employees to communicate within the workplace, which pose unique challenges. We continue to communicate as we used to, but now we are communicating through new and more technological mediums. As our communication methods progress at a rapid pace, the business world is forced to progress as well in order to be successful and competitive. Looking into the business culture, and how employees are communicating in this technological age is an important task of this paper. As workers in the business place, it is important for us to recognize that our modes of communication are changing. If we want to continue to communicate effectively, we must learn about how the new technological modes of communication can influence and alter our most basic interactions."
This research paper assesses the increase in the number of Internet users and Websites from 1994-2001 and determines if the number of people with Hypochondria and Munchausen Syndrome have also increased or decreased in the same time span.
Abstract This paper assesses the increase in internet usage and determines if the prevalence of hypochondria and Munchausen syndrome have also increased. This is examined by gathering research from literature and health websites. The following is assessed: 1) exactly how many more internet users there were in 2001 than in 1994, 2) what the prevalence of hypochondria was in 1994 compared to 2001 and 3) what the prevalence on Munchausen syndrome was in 1994 compared to 2001. From this information the writer determines if 1) the increased Internet usage is increasing the number of people with these conditions; by allowing them easy information to more diseases and their signs and symptoms, or 2) if people are using the increased forms of communication, namely chat rooms and message boards, to have more interaction with people and not feign illness to obtain attention from medical personnel.
From the Paper "At no other time in history has it been as easy to access information as it is at present day. All of the technological advances that have been made in the last hundred years has enabled people to access information at the touch of a button. The button that is being referred to is the one that allows access to the Internet. The Internet allows people to explore information on any subject imaginable. It also allows for social interaction in chat rooms and on message boards."
Abstract The paper gives an in-depth examination of the development of the internet from its early days as a communication between government departments and academics to how it has become part of every day life.
It looks at the main features of today's use such as e-mail and chat programs, ftp and web browsers. It also discusses the negative side of the internet such as security risks, breaches of individual privacy and criminal offences such as attempts to commit fraud.
From the Paper "One advantage to the Internet is the fact it is not owned by anyone, it has no regulatory authority, and is therefore a truly free medium. However this does not mean it is completely unregulated laws of the various countries can be applied (for example to curb pornographic material) but these regulations are week and ineffective. This has an effect of lowering boarders to trade and communication and in many cases lowering the barriers that may exist. Goods can be ordered between countries, and with he advance of electronic data transfer they can be paid for over the internet and delivered directly to the purchaser, often within a matter of days, just as communication can be seen as taking minutes rather than days."
