So what’s the buzz?

Google has recently released Google Buzz, a social networking tool that is integrated into its Gmail service and brings many functions of current social media sites into one experience. Users can now share videos, pictures and updates and communicate with others about the shared content in the same space. Comments are automatically sent to the Gmail inbox ensure the message reaches the user. Furthermore, the user can choose whether or not the information is public or private to a specific group of people.

Perhaps the most important tidbit: Buzz works on your phone. With Google also recently launching a new smart phone, the Nexus One, the Buzz feature could be a strong selling point for distance learners looking to find the right mLearning device. One of the biggest appeals toward online colleges is the idea of convenience and portability. What’s more convenient than bringing multiple communication vehicles into one virtual workspace on your mobile phone?

Many believe that the Nexus One, which uses the Android operating system, is the closest competition to the Apple iPhone. From an education standpoint, if the apps on the Nexus One are close in comparison to those on the iPhone, how much leverage will Buzz create for Google in the mobile learning realm? A mobile device that offers quality learning applications combined with the benefits of Google Buzz could certainly appeal to students earning accredited online degrees.

It remains to be seen what kind of impact Google Buzz will have on distance learning. So for now, we’ll just sit back and listen to the hum.

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