Noobie 101 - Socializing into the world of the social web

Noobie (or Noob, Newbie) is a slang term to describe someone who is inexperienced in a profession or activity. In my case, the term applies because I really have not taken the time to actually participate in and learn to navigate the social web - I blame it on lack of time, perhaps even my shyness; but, whatever my personal reasons for not engaging in social media, I cannot overlook the increasing importance of this platform to the practice of Public Relations today. In the TV show Scrubs, the surly doctor kept referring to the residents he was relunctantly mentoring as newbies, using the term in a not-so-friendly way to the chagrin of the residents (and amusement of viewers). I, on the other hand, am a proud noobie because recognizing this weakness as a PR practitioner is the first step to overcoming it and helping me realize the benefits of  incorporating social media into my communication strategies.

Just to give you the benchmark of where my learning in this arena is beginning, I admit I broke a sweat when Boyd went through the assignment requirements, truly recognizing I am indeed starting from scratch. QR Code? AR application? (Don't worry, Boyd - I have since "googled it"). For my fellow noobies in the class, here are the definitions I found online to these technical terms I refer to with the aim of helping you get a comfortable start as you socialize into the social media platform. If the more experienced students can improve or simplify the definitions I've provided below, please do so - your expertise is welcomed!

QR Code: (aka those funny looking bar codes you see in ads on the subway.) Defined in Wikipedia as a barcode that has fast readability and can store a ton of information. First used in the automotive industry, these codes have started to be used in a broader context to provide information. Many mobile phone users are targeted with QR codes, and once a code is scanned with a phone, the user may be able to compose an email or text message, or open a URL.

AR Application:  According to "Whatistechtarget.com, AR is the abbreviation for "augmented reality." "Augmented reality is the integration of digital information with live video or the user's environment in real time. Basically, AR takes an existing picture and blends new information into it. One of the first commercial applications of AR technology is the yellow first down line in televised football games."

LBS: Stands for "location based service". As per Wikipedia, "This is a service accessible through mobile devices that LBS include services to identify a location of a person or object, such as discovering the nearest banking cash machine or the whereabouts of a friend or employee. LBS include parcel tracking and vehicle tracking services. LBS can include mobile commerce when taking the form of coupons or advertising directed at customers based on their current location. They include personalized weather services and even location-based games."

Discovery Engine: A form of web search engine that finds and recommends content to users.