Books in Digital and Information Literacy series

Computers, portable digital devices, social networking, crowdfunding, and other digital technologies make it possible for social entrepreneurs to solve problems far from their own neighborhoods. This unique resource provides detailed information about using new technology and online information to help readers turn dreams of a better world into reality. Solving social problems is easier with the information and resources to plan ahead, organize a team, get the word out, and find the money needed to make it happen. Readers will find out exactly how to do all of these things right here.

This helpful instructional title goes far beyond the simplistic directive Just look online! that many young researchers may be given when they are assigned school research. With so many resources online, ranging from academically rigorous to sloppy and suspect, the modern young researcher needs to be armed with strategies and tools that will yield the best information and help him or her organize and present that information effectively. In a modern school environment, the digital tools discussed in this book go a long way toward insuring success and excellence.

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.

Self-expression is incredibly important, especially during the teen years, and with the advent of blogging, teen writers can share their thoughts, ideas, and creative writing with the entire world and create a supportive and nurturing online community. Blogs can be enhanced with photos, artwork, video, and audio, creating a rich, multi-layered, multimedia expression of the self. Yet there are dangers associated with blogging, as with all other forms of digital communication--over-sharing, cyber-bullying, cyber-stalking, flaming, inappropriate language and images, and unlawful use of other people's content. This book covers all of the information needed to set up and maintain a blog, build a friendly community of fellow bloggers, and avoid all of the very real dangers of life in cyberspace,

Whether you're in business or just enjoying some free time on social media, creating an identity on the Web is more important than ever. Readers will learn how companies of all shapes and sizes use the Internet to form an image and increase sales. This instructive volume also provides examples of how one's personal brand online is more important than one might think. Myths and facts dispel some common misconceptions about online branding, and 10 Great Questions to Ask a Social Media Specialist will help readers focus on the important aspects of their online presence.

The increasing power of mobile communications devices has reached the point where they now act as a pocket-sized computer. With this much power, a wide range of downloadable applications, and always-available Internet access, the ability to use today’s smartphones for productivity and schoolwork has huge potential. This book examines the uses, applications, and relative strengths and weaknesses among these devices. It also reveals how mobile devices can be used to find information related to communication, research, school work, and even fun and games. The reader will discover the latest techniques for gathering information on-the-go, in the form of digital photos, text, audio, and video, using mobile devices. They will also learn how to use those same mobile devices to organize, retrieve, and relay the information they have gathered to friends, family, study partners, and teachers. The book also includes the latest guidelines for proper digital and cell phone etiquette and security, “Myths and Facts,” and “1 Great Questions to Ask an IT Specialist.”

Foursquare and other, similar location-based services are no longer merely sophisticated toys that allow users to broadcast their location, but have transformed into real marketing opportunities. Foursquare can also be an important way for teens and parents to always be in contact and aware of each other's present location. This book introduces readers to all the surprising things that location-based services allow users to do, as well as some of the dangers and pitfalls associated with the technology that should be avoided.

Whether you're in business or just enjoying some free time on social media, creating an identity on the Web is more important than ever. Readers will learn how companies of all shapes and sizes use the Internet to form an image and increase sales. This instructive volume also provides examples of how one's personal brand online is more important than one might think. Myths and facts dispel some common misconceptions about online branding, and 1 Great Questions to Ask a Social Media Specialist will help readers focus on the important aspects of their online presence.

Digital communication—particularly via social networking sites—has quickly become a dominant form of interaction in our society and worldwide. The instantaneous convenience of conversation and dialog with friends down the street or strangers halfway across the globe is a wondrous technological development and one with enormous potential for relationship-strengthening, idea-sharing, and community-building. Yet the anonymity of digital communication and self-expression also provides some users with a false sense of impunity. They feel encouraged to say things they wouldn't say in a face-to-face encounter. Some of these posts can be bullying; some can involve hate speech or defamation. Readers will walk the line that separates harsh but legitimate criticism, which is protected by free speech provisions of the Constitution, from defamation and other illegal forms of expression. They also wade into these troubled waters, sort through the major legal precedents, and are provided with some invaluable guidelines to follow when expressing themselves or communicating with others via the Internet.

Readers consider e-book technology and services, and how to launch an e-book (choosing a platform, platform-specific formatting, etc.) and marketing their e-book to an audience. This engaging narrative presents e-book success stories of young authors, and investigates the reasons for publishing an e-book. It's a handy how-to guide that enhances writing and communication skills while helping teens in their quest to becoming published authors on the Internet.

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.