After taking some time to research a broad topic of diversity among technology participants, I came across a very enlightening article that seemed worthy of mentioning. As we had discussed in my class earlier last week, topics can either have deductive or inductive conclusions. Some sources are more credible than others depending on the authors’ or researchers’ credentials, if observations or study/tests were done, the results, and of course the sample size. The article I came across is by Marc Prensky, an internationally known writer concentrated on the topic of education and learning.
The article titled “Digital Natives, Digital immigrants” focused on the digital era and the generation that has grown with it. He describes what he calls the D-Gen (digital generation) and the Digital immigrants who aren’t necessarily individuals with different country origins, but the individuals born outside of this so called D-gen. The huge difference between these two groups is how they interact and associate technology in everyday life. The individuals considered a part of the D-Gen group are those in Kindergarten to College level students. They are categorized under this generation because they have grown up with the 20th century digital age. Technology has always been integrated into their lives while the digital immigrants had to adapt and transition over.
Prensky’s article seems to do a good job in providing examples and sources to support his claims. He provides several comments and opinions from both groups. He also includes claims from other studies such as Dr. Bruce Perry from Baylor College Medicine whose study concluded that there has been a change in thinking patterns from the digital immigrants group to the digital natives and predicts that this could lead to different brain structures in the future for the D-gen.
With the amount of information provided this article proves to be a good source. After reading the article it was noted that Prensky’s had an inductive conclusion. He had observed our generation of technology natives and the digital immigrants and came upon the conclusion that the students of the digital native group have changed in a completely new way that can no longer be reversed. Our change is not anything alike to the changes seen before our generation from clothing or taste in music. Instead it has been a change in how we process information and our ability to do so at a different speed.
Sunday, September 26, 2010
Saturday, September 25, 2010
Categorizations of Techies
Tech users are a huge group of individuals located practically every where in the world. Tech users can be categorized by so many labels such as children of elementary and middle schools to students from secondary schools, to business people, CEOs, grandparents to Americans, Latinos, etc. Therefore it was kind of difficult to find information regarding one categorizations. Thus, I decided to break down the groups I would like to focus on.
A) Children in elementary/middle school
B) College students
C) Parents of A & B
D) Grandparents or aunts of A & B
E) Gender
F) Education level of those mentioned above
G) Ethnicity or country of origin of those mentioned above
A) Children in elementary/middle school
B) College students
C) Parents of A & B
D) Grandparents or aunts of A & B
E) Gender
F) Education level of those mentioned above
G) Ethnicity or country of origin of those mentioned above
Sunday, September 19, 2010
"Netiquette" Nowadays
After reading an article about online etiquette I tried to find related information about “netiquette” as the article referred to it. Not to my surprise many of the articles included Facebook if not used it as the prime example.
A lack of “netiquette."
Not only do we see that individuals are lacking etiquette in their daily life conversations in between gadgets, but it seems that the most lack of online etiquette is seen a place where it has been so common, we don’t realize it anymore. That place is online games.
As the author of this short article reminds us, many gamers have grown so in sync with their fictional characters that they forget that the other players are actually human beings. I witnessed this once, maybe because I’m not a frequent gamer at all, but I was really astounded by the kind of games that exist and what the characters do. Call of duty is a very mature game and considered violent. However, that’s not the worst part. What was the rudest thing about these online games (mostly for Mature and Teenage audience) was how these players interacted with each other. No such thing as salutations or greetings. Instead they cursed and bashed each other over how they had lost or were not playing correctly.
I thought to myself that if this game where occurring in real life, the character and gamers would not really act that way. Take for example Call of Duty: Modern Warfare II. The characters are soldier fighting against their enemies in different settings. The gamers are constantly cursing and bashing the abilities of one another when they get shot or lose a target. In reality, if a war were going on, they would not completely act that way. Soldiers have respect for one another and yes, maybe they use foul language once in a while when their frustrated but they would not say or act the way the games do within network chats.
So when I came across an article titled “Let their voices be unheard,” it dawned on me that some individuals have become aware of these bad manners. The author Griffin McElroy, speaks about the new mute feature in the game Halo; something he very much appreciates. For a game to include such feature, it must mean that they’ve become aware at how violent the game is and how the violence sometimes bring about a very competitive atmosphere that causes the gamers to react they way they do and without social manners. What can be done about this lack of online etiquette besides including mute features? Well, some like Vartan Haghverdi from ebonline.tk and David Pogue from the New York times have written about these events and asked for gamers to have consideration for others and for the internet users to have respect for others on the web.
Sources:
http://www.joystiq.com/2010/09/15/halo-reach-has-an-auto-mute-feature/
http://pogue.blogs.nytimes.com/2006/12/14/14pogue-email-2/
http://ebonline.tk/etiquette.html
A lack of “netiquette."
Not only do we see that individuals are lacking etiquette in their daily life conversations in between gadgets, but it seems that the most lack of online etiquette is seen a place where it has been so common, we don’t realize it anymore. That place is online games.
As the author of this short article reminds us, many gamers have grown so in sync with their fictional characters that they forget that the other players are actually human beings. I witnessed this once, maybe because I’m not a frequent gamer at all, but I was really astounded by the kind of games that exist and what the characters do. Call of duty is a very mature game and considered violent. However, that’s not the worst part. What was the rudest thing about these online games (mostly for Mature and Teenage audience) was how these players interacted with each other. No such thing as salutations or greetings. Instead they cursed and bashed each other over how they had lost or were not playing correctly.
I thought to myself that if this game where occurring in real life, the character and gamers would not really act that way. Take for example Call of Duty: Modern Warfare II. The characters are soldier fighting against their enemies in different settings. The gamers are constantly cursing and bashing the abilities of one another when they get shot or lose a target. In reality, if a war were going on, they would not completely act that way. Soldiers have respect for one another and yes, maybe they use foul language once in a while when their frustrated but they would not say or act the way the games do within network chats.
So when I came across an article titled “Let their voices be unheard,” it dawned on me that some individuals have become aware of these bad manners. The author Griffin McElroy, speaks about the new mute feature in the game Halo; something he very much appreciates. For a game to include such feature, it must mean that they’ve become aware at how violent the game is and how the violence sometimes bring about a very competitive atmosphere that causes the gamers to react they way they do and without social manners. What can be done about this lack of online etiquette besides including mute features? Well, some like Vartan Haghverdi from ebonline.tk and David Pogue from the New York times have written about these events and asked for gamers to have consideration for others and for the internet users to have respect for others on the web.
Sources:
http://www.joystiq.com/2010/09/15/halo-reach-has-an-auto-mute-feature/
http://pogue.blogs.nytimes.com/2006/12/14/14pogue-email-2/
http://ebonline.tk/etiquette.html
Sunday, September 12, 2010
Time's Article: The Battle for the Soul of the Internet
The 2005 article really surprised me. I was hardly fourteen years old when that issue was printed; not to mention the age I was when the Laurence Canter and Martha Siegel scandal. Some of the issues the article discussed don’t exist anymore and I was really confused at some points because I never remember having to deal with such issues. For instance, in the article it states that only certain internet users could get online and it was usually because of a university or government research lab. This is so unrealistic because nowadays it is rare for someone not to have access to the internet. Therefore, some of the problems that were seen in 2005 such as the “newbies” joining the internet users as college freshmen and having overwhelmed e-mail inboxes with error messages from the “newbies” does not exist anymore.
As for the growth of small businesses offering the access to the internet, it is seen the prediction of the expansion of the internet did occur. Perhaps a little slowly at first because as the article had stated, many users were first observing and learning the capabilities of such a tool. However, currently there seems to be fewer small businesses and larger-popular businesses trusted to provide this internet service; no longer with modems but with advances such as wireless access. In that aspect, some challenges were created: the price of the service. Back then, the price of this service ranged from 10-30 dollars. Now, it is no less than fifty dollars, sometimes even in the three digit range when I see my Verizon Fios bill.
However, in general I do think some of the problems were solved and challenges were erased. Most of the problems and challenged discussed in the article occurred because the internet was still a new tool. Individuals were still exploring, companies analyzing its usefulness, and others were skeptical. Yet, some of the issues only evolved. For instance, the article states, “The Internet is a two-way medium. Although it is delivered on a glowing screen, it isn't at all like television…There isn't even a master switch that can shut it down in case of emergency.” This issue evolved into what we now see as a greater use for free speech but without any censorship, rules, and guidelines that keep in check what is being sent out though the web. At times, it may be used for useful purposes, but more than usual it is not. That is why there is so much controversy over social websites that have been established and sites that are not meant for all eyes to see. The web is not aware that the users are not only adults and college students anymore, but children, teens, mothers, grandparents, employers, employees and anyone who knows how to use a computer.
As for the growth of small businesses offering the access to the internet, it is seen the prediction of the expansion of the internet did occur. Perhaps a little slowly at first because as the article had stated, many users were first observing and learning the capabilities of such a tool. However, currently there seems to be fewer small businesses and larger-popular businesses trusted to provide this internet service; no longer with modems but with advances such as wireless access. In that aspect, some challenges were created: the price of the service. Back then, the price of this service ranged from 10-30 dollars. Now, it is no less than fifty dollars, sometimes even in the three digit range when I see my Verizon Fios bill.
However, in general I do think some of the problems were solved and challenges were erased. Most of the problems and challenged discussed in the article occurred because the internet was still a new tool. Individuals were still exploring, companies analyzing its usefulness, and others were skeptical. Yet, some of the issues only evolved. For instance, the article states, “The Internet is a two-way medium. Although it is delivered on a glowing screen, it isn't at all like television…There isn't even a master switch that can shut it down in case of emergency.” This issue evolved into what we now see as a greater use for free speech but without any censorship, rules, and guidelines that keep in check what is being sent out though the web. At times, it may be used for useful purposes, but more than usual it is not. That is why there is so much controversy over social websites that have been established and sites that are not meant for all eyes to see. The web is not aware that the users are not only adults and college students anymore, but children, teens, mothers, grandparents, employers, employees and anyone who knows how to use a computer.
Thursday, September 9, 2010
History
My topic is pretty broad, so its definite history is unclear. If we start with the diversity aspect, this post could be millions of words long detailing the history of each different group whether the group is determined by language spoken, height, or income. But it is known that we tend to group with individuals who are alike us. Now the method of determining how one is similar with someone else is different for each individual. Yet, we do participate in “grouping.” Ten years ago it was probably the same way. Of course, there have always been issues with certain groups. For instance, when it comes to politics, the upper income-class tends to be with politicians who help their needs in tax breaks and company security. The lower-income individuals then support the candidates like Adrian Fenty who seem to be aware of social and income problems among the poor and try to help them.
However, society has slowly adapted to increasing diversity change in society. For example, in 1990 according to the census, of the Hispanics who returned the survey 60% were Mexican, 12% were Puerto Rican, 5% were Cuban and 23% fell under other Hispanics. The top three American cities with the highest Hispanic population were New York, Los Angeles, and Chicago. When surveyed in 2000, the top three cities did not change, but Houston and Philadelphia were added with having increasing Hispanic population. The Distribution of Hispanic population changed as well; 58.5% were Mexican, 9.6% were Puerto Rican, 3.5% were Cuban, and 28.4% were other Hispanics. Of course this is just one view of a group. Years ago, during the civil rights movement the focus was on African-Americans and Blacks and the discrimination they suffered.
Currently, the increasing debate is that the minorities will soon become the majority in America, thus increasing diversity. But, the manner in which the minorities are becoming the majority is sometimes by illegal methods. Some are crossing the Mexican-American border. Others arrive in boats from the Caribbean. Either way, it is bringing about some negative outcomes such as the Arizona’s immigration laws. This behavior that the Majority and natives to the United States may seem unconstitutional and racist to some but it is not the first time a specific group of individuals is targeted. The United States has a history of this. It will just take time for the public to accept this new group or deny it like we have done in the past to the Native Americans, Asians, Irish, and African- Americans.
The technology that has been rapidly changing and increasing over the past twenty years has greatly helped in acquiring information about diversity and helps to bring about information and knowledge about those who are different from us. For instance, Google, Wikipedia , and the general wide web that can literally search for any information someone would like to learn about a country or culture. It is even possible to search in different languages. Depending on the searched topic, Wikipedia can offer up to 146 different languages. In addition, not only can we learn about cultures and customs, but we can also acquire statistical data and researches done by institutions and the government. Thanks to technology we can also learn through email, SMS, online news, and tweets about current events occurring outside our country. For instance, Google saw an increase in tweets about Fidel Castro from 9am to 10:30am today because of a recent statement he made about the failing economic system in Cuba.
So, technology seems to really be improving how we handle and learn about diversity in our country and from other countries as well.
However, society has slowly adapted to increasing diversity change in society. For example, in 1990 according to the census, of the Hispanics who returned the survey 60% were Mexican, 12% were Puerto Rican, 5% were Cuban and 23% fell under other Hispanics. The top three American cities with the highest Hispanic population were New York, Los Angeles, and Chicago. When surveyed in 2000, the top three cities did not change, but Houston and Philadelphia were added with having increasing Hispanic population. The Distribution of Hispanic population changed as well; 58.5% were Mexican, 9.6% were Puerto Rican, 3.5% were Cuban, and 28.4% were other Hispanics. Of course this is just one view of a group. Years ago, during the civil rights movement the focus was on African-Americans and Blacks and the discrimination they suffered.
Currently, the increasing debate is that the minorities will soon become the majority in America, thus increasing diversity. But, the manner in which the minorities are becoming the majority is sometimes by illegal methods. Some are crossing the Mexican-American border. Others arrive in boats from the Caribbean. Either way, it is bringing about some negative outcomes such as the Arizona’s immigration laws. This behavior that the Majority and natives to the United States may seem unconstitutional and racist to some but it is not the first time a specific group of individuals is targeted. The United States has a history of this. It will just take time for the public to accept this new group or deny it like we have done in the past to the Native Americans, Asians, Irish, and African- Americans.
The technology that has been rapidly changing and increasing over the past twenty years has greatly helped in acquiring information about diversity and helps to bring about information and knowledge about those who are different from us. For instance, Google, Wikipedia , and the general wide web that can literally search for any information someone would like to learn about a country or culture. It is even possible to search in different languages. Depending on the searched topic, Wikipedia can offer up to 146 different languages. In addition, not only can we learn about cultures and customs, but we can also acquire statistical data and researches done by institutions and the government. Thanks to technology we can also learn through email, SMS, online news, and tweets about current events occurring outside our country. For instance, Google saw an increase in tweets about Fidel Castro from 9am to 10:30am today because of a recent statement he made about the failing economic system in Cuba.
So, technology seems to really be improving how we handle and learn about diversity in our country and from other countries as well.
Wednesday, September 8, 2010
iNTRODUCTiON: DiVERSiTY
Diversity is defined as being different, having a point of difference or variety, according to an online dictionary I was able to find by “google-ing” it. You see, nowadays Google alike many other online search engines help with day to day tasks; in this case, being able to find the definition of a word. Many individuals of my generation and others outside of my generation as well, have adapted to the fast-growing technology of the twentieth century. Technology is becoming essential in some aspects for everyday life. Therefore, many people are beginning to learn and acquire such technologies. For instance, iPods, smart phones, MP3s, laptops, iPads, Kindles, Etc.
This progress brings to light the topic of my blog: diversity among tech users.
My previous topic had first focused on comparing and contrasting immigrants versus natives when it came to the use of technology. However, I thought it would be best to examine the overall diversity when it comes to tech users.
I would like to observe if diversity plays a huge role with technology, especially in a country where the society is very diverse. (I’m from the east coast of the United States where there seems to be a pretty significant array of cultures and ethnicities compared to other parts of the nation.)
I’d like to find any patterns or similarities among specific types of groups such as in age, education level, ethnicity, gender, or by the number of children living in one household. These patterns could include the knowledge they have about certain products or how often they use technology. I’d also like to observe if those individuals who were introduced to technology at an early age are truly using technology to their advantage or simply using it for basic social networking.
Having the knowledge to properly use technology is what I hope to learn from researching my topic and from my assignments in the I-course. I would also like to see if others have the knowledge or if the society they reside in influences the way they use their technology.
This progress brings to light the topic of my blog: diversity among tech users.
My previous topic had first focused on comparing and contrasting immigrants versus natives when it came to the use of technology. However, I thought it would be best to examine the overall diversity when it comes to tech users.
I would like to observe if diversity plays a huge role with technology, especially in a country where the society is very diverse. (I’m from the east coast of the United States where there seems to be a pretty significant array of cultures and ethnicities compared to other parts of the nation.)
I’d like to find any patterns or similarities among specific types of groups such as in age, education level, ethnicity, gender, or by the number of children living in one household. These patterns could include the knowledge they have about certain products or how often they use technology. I’d also like to observe if those individuals who were introduced to technology at an early age are truly using technology to their advantage or simply using it for basic social networking.
Having the knowledge to properly use technology is what I hope to learn from researching my topic and from my assignments in the I-course. I would also like to see if others have the knowledge or if the society they reside in influences the way they use their technology.
Thursday, September 2, 2010
TECHNOLOGY
Last semester, while in my Journalism 175 class, we were asked to participate in a research study for my professor. I gladly participated in what some called a "horrible, never-ending experience."
What kind of study was conducted you ask? We simply had to live 24 hours without any form of technology. That included iPods, laptops, cell phones, digital clocks, televisions. You get the picture.
Ironically, my Journalism 289i class this semester is the complete opposite!
Therefore, I will research the use of technology by immigrants and compare it with the use of technology by their children, also known as first generation Americans.
Let's see how this works.
What kind of study was conducted you ask? We simply had to live 24 hours without any form of technology. That included iPods, laptops, cell phones, digital clocks, televisions. You get the picture.
Ironically, my Journalism 289i class this semester is the complete opposite!
Therefore, I will research the use of technology by immigrants and compare it with the use of technology by their children, also known as first generation Americans.
Let's see how this works.
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