As twenty-first century Americans, our corner of the world cannot function without technology and all of the benefits that come along with it. Computers have been integrated into first grade classrooms, twelve-year-olds boast Blackberry’s, and medical records are being transformed into a digital medium. In order to live in this technology-crazed society, one must possess digital literacy. According to Cornell Information Technologies, digital literacy is “the ability to find, evaluate, utilize, and create information using digital technology.” This definition encompasses the reality that we must live in each and every day.
A digitally illiterate individual is subject to communication barriers. Illinois University says that in order to be digitally literate and therefore communicate effectively, “a person [must have the] ability to perform tasks effectively in a digital environment…and apply new knowledge gained from digital environments.” The key is the lessons learned and adaptations made from living in a digital world. Many of us go through daily life with only surface knowledge of how to use relatively simple digital tools. For example, we create an e-mail, yet have no idea how the process of sending and receiving the message actually works. We must also acknowledge that “technology is changing faster than society is”, and therefore presents challenges to the structure of American life (CIT). “The rules of appropriate behavior in these digital contexts may be unknown or unknowable” (CIT). For these reasons, each individual needs to make an effort to be well-informed and fluent in the digital language that is modern America.
Works Cited:
"Digital Literacy Definitions and Resources." Illinois University Library. Ed. Sarah Hieltness. University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, 15 Oct. 2008. Web. 14 Jan. 2010. .
"What Is Digital Literacy?" Cornell University Digital Literacy Resource. Ed. Tracy Mitrano. Cornell Information Technologies, 2009. Web. 14 Jan. 2010. .
I agree with your statements about technology changing faster than society. I can find so many examples of that in my own life. For example, my grandparents just got a cell phone for christmas-their first one. However, neither one of them know how to access the voicemail yet. Also, my dad has had a cell phone longer than I have but within the past few years texting has become popular and I am a text master. I showed him how to send texts from his blackberry to me this past summer. While these updates about technology aren't necessary for either my grandparents or dad to remain a part of society, it does show how quickly technology is racing ahead and leaving older generations in the dust.
ReplyDeleteI agree with statement that world can not function with technology. Even within this university, technology is a important part of a student’s life. Technology is used within the majority of the classes offered here. For example, right now, I’m using technology to research and right an argument for this paper. Additionally, in math or science classes, technology is used to conduct laboratory experience and analyze data. Without technology, students would not be able to access many of the things that are available to help improve their learning environment.
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