We All are Europe - AESAEC

Module 2 – The Concept of Active European Citizenship and its Relevance for Senior Citizens
Unit 3
Unit in a nutshell
Achievements
Development of new communities in the EU
Understanding how social networks contribute to strengthening European
cohesion
After this unit you will be able to:
participate in social networks on the internet
approach new forms of tourism-based projects and networks.
If you treat people right they will treat you right - ninety percent of the time.
Franklin D. Roosevelt
Warming up:
Social networking – what does this mean to you and how does it work Are
you a passionate social networker yourself
2.3.1. What is Social Networking and how does it work
Listen / Read
Social networking is the grouping of individuals into specific groups, such as small rural communities
or a neighbourhood. Traditionally social networking was based on “real” contacts and face-to-face
communication, however in recent years social networking happens more and more online via the
internet. The internet is filled with millions of individuals who are looking to meet other internet
users, to gather and share information or experiences about lots of different topics, from sport to
gardening to developing friendships etc.
In online social networking websites are commonly used and are called social
sites. Social sites function like an online community of internet users. The
online community members share a common interest such as an interest in
each other’s lives, hobbies, sports and many other subjects. When you access
a social networking website you can begin to socialise with the other members.
This socialisation may include reading the profile pages of other members
and possibly even contacting them.
Another benefit is that making friends includes intercultural skills and, most of
all, understanding. The internet gives citizens from all around the world access
to social networking sites. This means that although you live in Italy you could
develop an online friendship with someone in Denmark and learn something
about the daily life in this particular European country. Not only will you make
new friends, you might also learn a thing or two about new cultures or new languages.
Social networking involves grouping specific individuals or organisations together.
Some of the social networking sites have a focus on a particular interest
whilst others are more general. The websites without a main focus are often referred to as "traditional"
social networking websites and usually have open memberships. This means that anyone can
become a member.
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