The Telegraph reported yesterday that researchers at the University of Colorado published results of a study that posits social media tools as more effective than traditional sources. Their studies of the coverage of California wildfires and the Virginia Tech shootings “found that blogs, maps, photo sites and instant messaging systems were better at providing warnings, help and lists of how individuals were affected than traditional sources.”
This reinforces Sharkey’s comments about social networks’ roles in disasters such as the London Underground bombings. I’m beginning to think this guy knows what he’s talking about…
~Jeremy
Well there you go to all those who are technology haters… here’s another good one: http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/24403433
…and it’s also helpful for ensuring you don’t disappear in a foreign jail – provided you have a virtual network that cares about whether you disappear, that is.
Will building a virtual network become the latest safety precaution?
Technology haters, hermits, and Andrew Keen – consider yourself warned-ha.
I believe it. On 9/11 I spent the morning and afternoon following the terror and sharing feelings with a bunch of people I only knew through a messageboard. It was like watching a tragedy unfold, but having the comfort of being able to share the experience with others who had the same feelings.
College students are more connected through social networks than anyone, so it’s no surprise that the best way to get the word out about a campus danger would be through social media outlets.