Classification and Tagging

The advent of tagging internet data by ordinary users has created a new level of classification. This relatively new phenomena is creating taxonomy as we speak; or more precisely, as we communicate. In the past, one of the most time consuming aspect of the Web was trying to find saved data quickly and efficiently. It was a bit like looking for the proverbial "needle in a haystack". When WEB 2.0 arrived it allowed us to tag information according to our needs, making retrieval easier.

One of the most useful tagging sites is del.icio.us. Instead of hundreds of sites marked in a favorites list, we can tag it under del.icio.us. The data is saved in categories of our choice, using the language and wordage that is useful to us. In addition, it will allow us to see what others are collecting under similar tags. This is collaborative learning at its best!

No longer are our favorites list on just one computer. Del.icio.us allows us to publish them for online use. Personally, this is the ultimate advantage because I often work on various computers. My home has three computers that the family uses interchangeable. As a teacher I may find myself working on my school assigned laptop, one of the library computers, or the technology classroom computers. Having data available no matter where I am is a lifesaver.

When I created the tags for the assigned project, I was not very satisfied with the outcome. As with any new experience it will take getting used to before I can say I am pleased with the result. Perhaps it was the websites that I randomly chose to complete the assignment; I was not too excited about them. Instead of giving 100% on the assignment, I was thinking of my antiquated favorites list and deciding how to tag and classify the hundreds of sites. Categorizing my own data will be a challenge but well worth the time and effort. If I do not get around to the ol' favorites list, I know that I will tag my collection of new sites.