A new social network: Google Plus

Google recently announced their new Social Network, Google+ ('Plus') with several features that distinguish it from Facebook. The most interesting one in terms of classroom use may be the "circles" feature in which you can share content across distinct, separate groups.


The core Google+ features are:


Circles: A method of assigning people to different micro-networks and then sharing information with only them
Hangouts: Video chats where people can get together and catchup
Huddles: Ongoing IM conversations across groups
Sparks: Search for content by your friends and share your own content

Google plus is still being tested right now.  After the testing period, many invites will be sent out.  Sign up for invitation here

https://services.google.com/fb/forms/googleplus/

Watch:




Folks are already developing a collaborative Google Doc for tips and tricks with Google +

Read more commentary from PC World on Google+ and privacy.

See also: thoughtful post by Ryan Bretag:  He argues that rather than trying to "school-ify" Facebook, Google + could fit the bill for classroom learning commons.

Rode the Wave and Buzzed the Tower: Now I am +for Ed

Haven't yet figured out Facebook's 170 different privacy settings?

Facebook has done its obligatory mea culpa and promises to simplify its privacy settings.  But while you are waiting it may be worth looking at Pip.io. Today's New York Times reviewed this site: Rivals Seize on Troubles of Facebook

Leo Shimizu, left, and David Chen founded Pio.io, a social site that emphasizes privacy.

Pip.io is an application that helps users create, track, and manage their online conversations. Like Facebook and Twitter, Pip.io encourages its users to upload videos and photos, add status updates, and communicate with friends in whichever ways they feel most comfortable.

Other advantages:

• Determine the level of access for each user who adds you as a contact --better privacy settings than any other social network available right now
• Automatic refresh feature ensures new information comes to you right away --add discussions from public rooms to your Pip.io news feed
• Use video chat to communicate with contacts in real time
• See what’s going on in your other social networks without leaving the Pip.io site