Since I’ve joined the BlogWorld, I’ve seen the term “Web 2.0” used quite a bit without actually understanding what it means. It sounds a bit like a new type of Internet, a new way to navigate and interact with the Web, which can be misleading. Web 2.0 is not a completely new way to access websites or blogs - Web 2.0 does not have set boundaries in which a site is only Web 1.0 or Web 2.0. Rather, instead of disparate websites isolated out in cyberspace, the new face of the Internet is coagulation of data and websites. One of the most interesting aspects of Web 2.0 seems to be that instead of trying to access and assemble information alone, uses are encouraged to work together, to interact and create together. Web 2.0 is about community, about bringing users and their vast knowledge together for the benefit of all.

You don’t have to buy a new computer or switch your ISP to become part of Web 2.0. You can do something as simple as using an aggregator to subscribe to blogs or websites you find interesting. You can share your photos on Flickr. You can make your bookmarks public with a del.icio.us account so that others can quickly find the best of the web. You can blog and share your knowledge, experiences, and abilities with others.

Here’s the Wikipedia entry for Web 2.0.

Here’s a great site I subscribe to for tracking Web 2.0.

Since I’m not an expert in this field, I would appreciate any corrections or additions anyone might like to add!!