Books in Digital and Information Literacy series

Nearly every organization, business, and school has its own Web site. Many individuals have their own site as well. Readers who are interested in making their own Web site will find that the process of doing so draws on a number of different skills, and can be a valuable learning experience. This book introduces readers to the fundamentals of planning, designing, building, and publishing their own Web site. It simplifies complex concepts and encourages web site creation and experimentation.

Internet security breaches have been in the news of late. Organizations, governments, businesses, and individual internet users are all at risk. This book introduces readers to the importance of cybersecurity and addresses the current risks from hackers, viruses and other malware, identity thieves, and other online perils. It provides concrete measures that young digital natives can take to protect themselves and their computers, smartphones, and other devices. This volume's lively, cautionary narrative and useful tips will help readers effectively defend their identities and data.

The Internet has revolutionized the way people communicate and do business. It has even affected how people fundraise and seek investors. This introduction to crowdfunding explains how innovative entrepreneurs are using the power of collective groups to drum up interest in and fund their products and services. Readers receive a stimulating and highly practical overview of how different crowdfunding sites work, which site may be best for their project, the kind of work involved in becoming a crowdfunding success, and what they can realistically expect from a crowdfunding experience.

This book introduces readers to the captivating world of virtual reality (VR), which is being hailed as the next frontier in technological user experience. Major tech companies such as Facebook and Microsoft are investing millions, if not billions, in VR. Perfect for students interested in the STEM disciplines, this book teaches them what virtual reality is, how it goes beyond just gaming and is being applied to solving real-world problems by creating virtual environments for users. Finally, readers learn about the bright future of virtual reality.

The benefits offered by wearable devices seem limitless, and for many people, the devices are really chic. These wireless gadgets can track the number of steps people take each day; measure their heart rates, the number of calories they ate, or the amount of energy they expended; or access data by using cloud computing. "Wearables"--bracelets, rings, eyeglasses, necklaces, shoe clips, and more--enable individuals to read, text, send e-mails, stay connected via social networks, or access the Internet as they walk. This intriguing volume also explains the devices' cutting-edge medical applications, including as impact indicators for concussion studies.

Alternative education models are becoming increasingly popular with students who may not be able to afford the high tuitions of traditional brick-and-mortar schools or commit to their rigid schedules. Requiring only an Internet connection and minimal software, Massive Open Online Courses, or MOOCs, are amongst the most accessible distance learning programs. They often offer free enrollment and a wide range of courses from top schools across the globe to students in even the remotest of areas. This volume evaluates the pros and cons of MOOCs in relation to traditional education and the exciting possibilities they open for students of all ages.