User generated content refers to various kinds of media content, publicly available, that are produced by end-users such as teachers or students (as opposed to mass media generated content).

The term entered mainstream usage during 2005 due to the explosion of web publishing opportunities. Its use for a wide range of applications including problem processing, news, gossip, and research reflects the expansion of media production through new technologies that are accessible and affordable to the general public. All digital media technologies are included, such as question-answer databases, digital pictures and video, blogging, podcasting, mobile phone photography and videos, and wikis. In addition to these technologies, user generated content may also employ a combination of open source, free software and flexible licensing or related agreements to further reduce the barriers to collaboration, skill-building, and discovery.

Before the launch of YouTube in 2005, there were few simple methods available for ordinary computer users who wanted to post videos online. With its easy to use interface, YouTube made it possible for anyone who could use a computer to post a video that millions of people could watch within a few minutes. The wide range of topics covered by YouTube has turned video sharing into one of the most important parts of internet culture.

Flickr is an image and video hosting website as well as an online community. Individuals can share personal photography, tag the photos for organization, and browse the photos of others. {Some material from Wikipedia}


7 Things You Should Know About YouTube

7 Things You Should Know About Flickr


The YouTube Handbook provides ways to help you find and watch videos. You can also interact with other YouTube users and around shared interests. If you make videos, you can broadcast them to the whole world, and maybe even develop an audience for your creations.

• Home: Clicking the "YouTube Handbook" link in the navigation bar will always bring you back here.
• Watch: Everything there is to know about watching videos, like how to find cool videos, subscribe to channels, and save videos to watch later.
• Produce: Tips & tricks for making better videos, copyright information, and how to upload to YouTube.