Google docs is a free application, open to all users, that can be used to create word documents, presentations or spread sheet that is stored online. Multiple users can edit the document simultaneity. However, google documents does not provide a strong security for the documents, after all it is free... However, Google docs does target business, but business must be aware that by uploading their documents on to google docs, they are risking having them stolen if the information uploaded is valuable. Personally, google docs is my number one option to do group projects. It keeps track of history edits (so you know who didn't do their portion of work :/) and I can work on the document with my team members simultaneity.
Catalyst is used by the De Anza community college online community. I am currently using it by taking two online classes at De Anza college. It has email and chat system, an option to provide quizzes and tests that are timed, a thread for discussions and space to upload videos and large files. However, the outline of catalyst is very old system, meaning that it is not user friendly. It takes time to get around the website and understand it. I currently have a group project that I am working on for my e-commerce online class, I use catalyst to communicate with my group and work on the project.
Facebook is well too known to explain, even my grandparents...all the way in Egypt are active users of the website. Facebook facilitates the sharing of information between friends and the public (if you have your share settings on "public"). People use it for many different ways, other than stocking one another. It has messaging system, an option to share photos and videos, as well as create statuses and events. It also provides a way for people to share their location (because who wouldn't want to know you're currently out eating burgers). Some of its disadvantages include the ownership of Facebook on personal information that gets uploaded by the user. In addition, Facebook facilitates an easy way for users to save information provided by one user, even if that user later on deletes it (that embarrassing photo?). However, Facebook can still be used as a way to communicate with others in order to perform positive tasks: such as creating an event that gathers people who have a common interest.
WhatsApp is an application used to communicate with other people around the world by relying on the internet connection. It is free and accessible almost to everyone who has an android or iPhone. It is very popular in countries such as India. Users can send/receive texts, videos, audio, or pictures. They can also store their chats and send it to their emails. users can also see "last seen at" status (So you'd know if someone had ignored your texts) However, after one year of using the application, users will need to pay $1/year moving forward. I use WhatsApp to talk with my family back in Egypt.
And last but not least, Instagram. A photo and video sharing application popular among teens and young adults. It is accessible to anyone with an iPhone or android. Users can share their photos and videos, while their friends can comment or "like" them. However, Instagram have ownership over the content posted on their application and doesn't provide strong privacy either. Thus, users should be aware not to post anything that they might later regret. I use Instagram to learn about the lives of my friends and communicate with them by leaving a comment or "liking" their video/image.
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