Internet Literacy - Chapter 9: Communicating in Real Time

AFTER COMPLETING THIS CHAPTER, YOU WILL BE ABLE TO:
	Define the most popular methods for communicating in real time over the Internet.
	Define how Internet Relay Chat (IRC) organizes conversations into channels.
	Enter Web-based chat rooms on the Internet and engage other users in meaningful real-time conversations.
	Configure an instant messaging (IM) client so you can IM your buddies over the Internet.
	Configure your computer for videoconferencing and participate in conversations that let you see and hear your conversants.
	Understand the purposes of and the distinctions between a MUD, a MOO, and a MUSH.
	Set up your own private chat room on the Internet.

INTERNET LITERACY RESOURCES:

Internet Relay Chat (IRC)

You can participate in an IRC chatroom by downloading and installing one of the clients below or by visiting one of the websites and using a web-based interface. Find a chatroom to participate or lurk in. Did you have a hard time following the conversation with many people involved?

Windows clients		Macintosh client
		Ircle

IrCQ-Net

Resources and
Indexes

	Top Ten Tricks and Tips for New IRC Users
	100 Top Chat Sites

Instant Messaging

When you choose an instant messaging client, you'll want to use the one that others you want to communicate with are also using and one that runs on your computer. Follow the links to download and install one of these clients and then communicate with one of your friends.

Reviews	IM invasion: top chat apps compared
	CNET's Instant Messengers List

Whiteboards and Real-Time Conferences

Each of these links provide the means to work with a partner over the Internet on the same files. Try this with a friend. Were you able to work together successfully?

MUDs, MOOs, and MUSHes

You can only begin to appreciate a MUD, MOO or MUSH by visiting one and participating. Find a MUD to try out using the MUD Connector and then use your MUD client or Telnet software to participate. Did the experience meet your expectations? Were you able to get comfortable moving around in the environment?

Software

Information

	MUD FAQs
	What's a MUSH?
	The History of MUDs

Directory

The MUD Connector

Sample

MMOGs and MMORPGs

Have you ever tried a MMOG or MMORPG? Do you think this is a good way to play games and is it a useful way to learn with others?

AWE Asymmetric Warfare Environment		Jump Gate

		$/\$
Previous Chapter	Summary of this Chapter	Table of Contents	Next Chapter

This page is part of the Internet Literacy Web site.
FIND OUT MORE about Internet Literacy, the new book by Fred T. Hofstetter
published by Irwin/McGraw-Hill