Week 1 discussion
DQ1 Topic 1 What is
technology?
Instructions for this discussion topic
Review each of the following resources and respond to the
questions posed below. In this course, it is a good practice to take notes on
the videos and readings so that you can begin to integrate the concepts covered
in each. This will also be helpful when you take your quizzes.
Overview of the historical impact of technology
Kelly, K. (2009).Technologyâs epic story. Available at:
Diamond, J. (May 1, 1987). The worst mistake in the history
of the human race. Discover Magazine, 64-66. Available at:
http://discovermagazine.com/1987/may/02-the-worst-mistake-in-the-history-of-the-human-race#.Uu73L_ldWSo
Some technologies that have helped to change the world
Anthony, D. W. (1994). Moving life forward. Faces
(07491387), 11(1), 14. Available at:
http://ezproxy.umuc.edu/login?url=http://search.ebscohost.com/login.aspx?direct=true&db=f5h&AN=9410050431&site=eds-live&scope=site
Popular Mechanics (n.d.). 101 Gadgets that changed the
world. Available at:
http://www.popularmechanics.com/technology/gadgets/reviews/101-gadgets-that-changed-the-world#slide-1
Dvorsky, G. (2012). Ten inventions that changed the world in
ways we didnât expect. Available at:
http://io9.com/5951267/10-inventions-that-changed-the-world-in-ways-we-didnt-expect
Discussion questions:
1) Based on the
resources provided above, how would you define technology? Be sure to use your
own words!
2) What are some
of the key points made by Kevin Kelly regarding the role of technology in the
evolution of humanity? Do you agree with his main arguments? Why or why not?
3) According to
Diamond, what is the worst mistake in the history of the human race? What does
this mistake have to do with technology and society?
4) What do you
think are the top 3 most important technologies of all time? Justify your
choices.
5) What is your
own favorite technology? Explain your choice.
Remember that in order to earn full credit for discussion
participation, you are to must respond fully to every question and submit your
best writing. Remember that you must respond to at least two of your classmates
before the end of the academic week.
DQ2 –
Topic 2 Black out!
On July 30, 2012, the worldâs biggest blackout took place in
India when three major power grids collapsed. To learn more about the story,
visit:
http://www.cbsnews.com/8301-202_162-57483166/india-blackout-worsens-620m-in-dark/
How do you think you would survive a power blackout?
Although it may seem a little counter-intuitive, we are going to start our
consideration of technology in modern society by removing technology from our
modern lives. This will lay an important
foundation for the remainder of the course. This week, you are to pick one
24-hour period in which you avoid technology as much as possible. This includes
the use of the following:
Cell phone and handheld devices
Computers, laptops, tablets
Television
Video games
Smart phones
iPods, MP3, radio
any other mobile device
Stove/Oven/Microwave
Dishwasher
For an extra challenge: start your day by filling large
containers with as much water as you think you might be able to haul from a
river or outside well and use only that water throughout the day instead of
relying on water from tap.
Obviously, if you must use any of these devices to perform
your job or to keep children safe and healthy, you may do so. You may use
kitchen appliances to prepare your meals (I don’t want your family to go
hungry!) and turn your air conditioning or heat on to keep your family
comfortable, but during your blackout day, avoid as much modern technology as
possible while you are at home. Be very mindful of the technologies that you
use or avoid during the day and how this impacts your ability to function. The
objective of this exercise is to help you to appreciate the ways in which
technology impacts your functioning in everyday life. If you have other family
members, see if they will participate with you and use this opportunity to talk
about how technology impacts your life as a family.
After you have completed your blackout period, respond to
the following questions in 2-3
paragraphs:
What technologies were you aware of using that past
generations did not have? How do these technologies impact your life?
What technologies did you give up during your blackout?
What did you miss the most and why? How did the absence of
these devices impact you in the home, workplace and other areas of your life?
Throughout the week, please respond substantively to at
least 2 classmates for this discussion topic.
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