Chapter 1: The Horizontal Revolution

Do I consider myself a digital native? I don’t know. Though by definition I might be a digital native, I would consider me a nerd one, perhaps. I’m interested in Web 2.0 applications because I want to teach better and equip my students with cutting-edge technology knowledge. While my research found that students only utilize part or some of Web 2.0 technology, they actually don’t use the technology to its full potential. Some students may only know social media and never heard of other categories. However, my research showed that students are eager to learn if the knowledge is available. Therefore, I am excited to teach the integrated merchandising channels class because my students and I are not only get a chance to explore social media world but together we can also experiment with other technologies.

Before I share more of my thought on Web 2.0, I should discuss my opinion of Chapter 1: The Horizontal Revolution. This chapter is easy to read and well layout. The authors do a good job of laying groundwork by incorporating necessary terminology, providing well-thought examples, and covering all learning objectives.

Below are prompt questions for your reflection. Tweedy Birds, if your ID end with odd number, compose your reflection journey on question numbers 1, 3, 5, 7, and 9. If your ID end with even number, question numbers 2, 4, 6, 8, and 9 are for you.

1. Do you consider yourself a digital native? Elaborate your answer. 
2. The textbook gave a complex definition of social media. In your understanding, what are social media? 
3. Are you ready to become responsible active participants in social media world? Elaborate your answer. Also, please describe how you can become responsible active participants in social media world. 
4. The authors categorized social media space into 4 zones. Give examples of social media venue that you either personally or professionally use. Identify your most and least familiar zone as well as provide list of social media tool you would like to explore more. 
5. What are your thoughts on co-creator? How would this concept change the world of marketing and merchandising? 
6. Have you ever participated in crowd funding? If yes, elaborate. If no, check the concept through Wikipedia and give your opinion regarding crow funding. 
7. The authors discussed benefits and downfall of social media marketing and merchandising. Discuss a downfall you have seen how marketers or merchandisers misused social media. 
8. Have you ever use social media as a venue to complain about your bad experience/service with the brand/business? If yes, what happen and how did it go? If no, did you see any? Give an example.
9. Give examples of how FMO or business of your choice can use the social media to: 

• Increase an awareness of the organization, 
• Influence desire for other students to join the organization, 
• Encourage more participation in the organization, 
• Facilitate more commitment to the organization, and 
• Cement organization loyalty. 

I am looking forward to reading your thought, ideas, and experience. Have fun!!