In today’s society, we are all Web workers.
That’s exactly what author, Mark Briggs, is explaining in the first chapter of his book titled, Journalism Next.
In the beginning of the chapter, Briggs explains how email and Web browsing “enable us to connect with one another and connect with information easily and constantly.“
However, it does takes some basic web knowledge (especially as a journalist) to receive the full benefits of online communication.
By the end of the chapter, Briggs gives the reader a better understanding of four different aspects of the Web. These include:
1. How Web browser’s work.
2. How to make RSS feeds work for you.
3. How FTP transfers large files over the Web.
4. How HTML, CSS, and XML work.
Briggs explains each aspect individually. So, let’s start from the beginning.
1. How Web browser’s work:
When looking at how web browsers work, Briggs describes it simply.
The Web browser access’s information from the world wide Web, and then copies the data so that it is saved (or visible) on your computer. A few well-known examples of web browsers are Internet Explorer, Safari, and Firefox.
Web Browsers Image: Credits to Themeflash.com
As for the Web browser’s components, all web browsers have a “cache,” or a users web browsing history. It’s important to monitor and restore your “cache” for faster web browsing.
Also, it’s important to always update a Web browser to it’s newest version, because newer versions usually include plug-ins and extensions.
Plug-ins and extensions can display more enhanced and updated graphics or text on a Web page. Briggs recommends the Firefox web browser for it’s high quality plugs-ins and extensions.
2. How to make RSS work for you:
RSS Feed Image: Credits to moc.edu
After getting familiar with Web browsers, subscribing to an RSS feed is a great way experience what the web can offer.
RSS, which stands for Really Simple Syndication, “enables you to subscribe to an information feed that gets delivered directly to an RSS reader or Web browser,” according to Briggs.
And what’s the best part about RSS feeds?
The immediacy of news.
Imagine going to one web page that gives you all the stories you want to read immediately, rather then browsing one Web page after the other.
That’s what an RSS feed provides.
Briggs says that some of the best places for getting RSS feeds are google, yahoo, or stand-alone readers such as Newsgator, or FeedDemon. All you need to do is find what interests you, and then click on the feed to subscribe.
But, if you are looking to set up an RSS feed for your own Web site or blog, all you have to do is find the feed, copy the url address, and subscribe it on to your site.
Briggs sum’s up the importance of RSS by saying, “RSS is essential. The bottom line is that using RSS is the most efficient way to consume massive amounts of information in a structured and organized way. And who doesn’t want to learn more while saving time.”
3. How to FTP transfer large files over the Web:
FTP, or File Transfer Protocol, might be a foreign term to the less Web-savvy individuals, but it’s a very common and useful tool.
Briggs says FTP “is a simple process for moving those big files that e-mail can’t handle.”
FTP is primarily used for uploading Web pages from a web host provider onto a Web server. But it is also great for transferring huge files such as pictures or video onto another site.
Briggs recommends FileZilla, or Coffee Cup FTP programs for Windows users, and Fetch, or Cute FTP for Mac users. All are free of charge.
In order to transfer files, all one needs is to use the FTP software and know the host Web site URL, the login id, and the password. After that, all one has to do is find the folder that contains what is to be uploaded (or sent) and transfer it over to the FTP.
Sample FTP Transfer:Credits to img.zdnet.com
4. How HTML, CSS, and XML work:
HTML is considered the “science” of the Web. Knowing how to work with HTML codes is good for users who want to modify certain parts of a personal Web site or blog.
HTML tutorials are great for learning how to use and change html codes. In the chapter, Briggs recommends these four sites:
- http://webdesign.about.com (my personal favorite)
CSS, which stands for Cascading Style Sheets, “enables you to edit, modify and troubleshoot existing Web pages and designs,” says Briggs.
Ultimately, CSS gives you the opportunity to be more creative or innovative with your blog or Web site.
Briggs recommends these three CSS tutorials:
And lastly, Briggs discusses XML, or Extensible Markup Language.
XML works directly with HTML. It allows people to classify information by its content, instead of the html structure. Furthermore, it uses tags to identify data.
Although the XML is usually only needed for building your own RSS feed, it’s still something users should know about.
In the end, Briggs does a great job of explaining some basic components of the web in one easy-to-read chapter. Briggs let’s readers know that a little Web knowledge and practice are needed for effective online communication.
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