What is Web 1.0?
1. Generally Web 1.0 sites are static. They often contain pertinent information, but that information rarely changes. Therefore, there is little incentive for visitors to return in the future.
2. Web 1.0 sites are also one sided. They do not allow any interactivity between the proprietor of the website and users. Therefore, visitors cannot manipulate or add any of their own ideas.
3. Web 1.0 applications and sites are proprietary. This means that they do not allow third party plugins and hold exclusive rights to the program or website.
(http://computer.howstuffworks.com/web-103.htm)
Once again, according to the definition of “howstuffworks.com,” Web 2.0 is a collection of the most effective ways to create and use webpages. This technology gives users a more democratic experience when using websites, allowing them to manipulate content. As a result, Web 2.0 gives users a better, deeper experience with websites. Many believe that Web 2.0 technology makes it easier for people to access information and connect with others online. (http://computer.howstuffworks.com/web-20.htm)
As technologies, 1.0 and 2.0 are very different. Web 1.0 is used more to learn about a subject, while Web 2.0 allows users to not only learn about the subject, but also communicate with each other and add more knowledge about the subject. This type of open source application makes using the Internet much more appealing to users since it allows them to take part in the discussion and further discourse.
Similarities in Both Technologies for Gathering News
Obviously, journalists can utilize both technologies to gather pertinent information for their stories. However, no matter the version of the Web a journalist uses, they must be cognizant of plagiarizing. A journalist could fall victim to plagiarism using either of the technologies. Similarly, whether they use an online encyclopedia or gather news from Twitter, they must be sure to check their sources.
Differences in News distribution
Obviously Web 1.0 is one sided. Many people enjoy the ability to read a story and then interact with the writer, as well as other fellow readers. Similarly, the user may have some breaking news to add to the story that the news organization does not yet have. Therefore, there is a more democratic aspect to distributing news on Web 2.0. The democracy of Web 2.0 is furthered since people can readily check the sources and information of the article, alerting the writer and others of the factual errors very quickly. Web 1.0 would never allow such a thing. Therefore, Web 2.0 allows for more information sharing and more accurate information being shared.
Differences in Audience Reach
Many people believe that Web 1.0 is a thing of the past. People really like to be able to interact with a story, as well as read further if they are interested. Web 2.0 allows similar articles to be displayed, allowing the users to read further if they choose. The perks of Web 2.0 have made it very successful, leading to a broader audience.
Ethics in Web 2.0 Environments
With the growing popularity of Web 2.0, there are many ethical issues that arise. An obvious one is plagiarism. Plagiarism can be done much easier in Web 2.0 sites, since many people post their opinion. A journalist could take that opinion and claim it as their own. Worse, they could report that opinion as fact. Either way, democratic journalism is under attack under Web 2.0.
Accountability in Web 2.0 Environments
Everyone involved in using Web 2.0 (journalists and users) need to maintain accountability. They should use discretion and poise when posting stories (or comments in the case of users). Some Web 2.0 sites reach millions of users and there needs to be some form of accountability. People need to realize that their actions do not only affect themselves, but everyone who potentially reads their post/article. Hopefully journalist will utilize whatever technology available to them properly, leading to more democratic news reporting and thorough coverage.
