Web Browsers
Modern operating systems incorporate protocols and applications which allow users to access information available on the Internet. Perhaps the most familiar Internet protocol is hyper text transfer protocol (http) which is used to create the unimaginably large and always changing collection of sites and pages known as the World Wide Web. To access World Wide Web pages, one must use a web browser; this application accepts files delivered using http which contain instructions written in hyper text markup language (html) to build the web page on the visitor's computer.
Using web browsers, educators can access a wide range of resources. In addition to accessing text and graphics in a format that is similar to print documents, users of modern web browsers can use interactive web pages. Many of the interactive features of web pages require the user to install a plug-in or extensions. This software expands the capacity of the web browser.
Media that requires plug-ins or extensions can be problematic for educators because it is possible that one is not even aware that a plug-in is necessary. Educators who preview web sites that are to be used in class on a home computer or on a workstation in a classroom may be using a computer on which the plug-in or extension has already been installed and may assume the site will work properly on computers in a computer room where the plug-in or extension is not available. Because this, educators are well advised to preview web sites on all computers that will be used for instruction, especially if the site includes animations, media, or interactive elements beyond text and images.
Resources for web browsers:
- Firefox (Mozilla, 2005-2006) is a web browser available for many operating systems.
- Opera (Opera Software ASA, 2006) is another web browser available for many operating systems
- CNET Networks (2006) maintains a web site where visitors can download software; there is a large collection of web browsers and related software.
Last updated: December 10, 2006