Web 2.0: Changes and Effects

Both authors, Alexander and Batson, view Web 2.0 as profoundly impactful change to society. They also use the term "the social Web," pointing to the way that this revolutionary technology connects people from across the globe in a way not previously possible. Whether it be information sharing, research, or social networking, people are able to relate and communicate with ease. The significant difference from Web 1.0 they highlight is the familiarity and accessibility of Web 2.0 to the common person. Although some of this technology has existed for quite awhile, it was not as readily understood or usable except to (as both authors call them) geeks, or persons who were very knowledgeable on the subject.
Although both authors recognize the effect of Web 2.0 on all of society, Alexander's discussion covers a broader topic. Batson aims his arguments at the use of the new technology offered by Web 2.0 in high education specifically, while Alexander encompasses new technological changes in more general terms. Alexander's article is also more technical because it focuses on the technological improvements since Web 1.0. Batson on the other hand, focuses more on the effects of the technology, particularly in the classroom. Basically, the main difference between the articles is that Batson talks about the actual technological changes themselves, while Alexander talks about a specific effect of these changes.