Post #1: Questions that Have Arisen from Readings/Class Discussion

Information and Communication Technologies (ICTs) encompass a broad variety of digital tools. The infographic above from Tech Target provides a breakdown of many, but not all, of the components of ICTs and provides a definition: "The term information and communication technology (ICT) is generally accepted to mean all technologies that, combined, allow people and organizations to interact in the digital world."

During last week's MSTU 4020 class, we were asked to discuss our "favorite" ICT. This was a difficult task because I am someone who uses so many different ICTs in a single day: communications, internet, software/hardware, transactions, etc. It was challenging to choose just one because some of the ICTs that I use are necessary for my job, schoolwork, and daily life. For me, when I think of naming a "favorite" of anything, whether it be a favorite movie, favorite food, or even a favorite ICT, it evokes a sense of choice. In this day and age, I wonder whether it's possible for the average person to spend a day without using some type of ICT, many of which are a requirement of daily life? Are ICTs necessary, or are they simply an option, a user's choice? On one hand, many information and communication technologies, particularly many social media sites, could be seen as insignificant for day to day life to function regularly. Life, for most, will go on without the use of Instagram, Twitter, or Facebook. People are able to go "off the grid" and are still able to live their lives normally. However, many people make their living from social media as advertisers and influencers. I spent years in a long-distance relationship, and without ICTs like Skype, Facetime, or Facebook to allow us to communicate daily, it would have been nearly impossible to maintain such a relationship. In this case, one of those ICTs might have been a "favorite" to allow me to communicate with my boyfriend, but they were also a necessity for us given our situation. Technology can make life easier for individuals who are able to find information quickly without leaving their homes or who are able to complete traditional daily tasks through the use of digital tools, like online shopping for clothes or groceries, online banking, online customer service tools, communicating with family and friends, etc. Being able to use ICTs can save valuable time compared to completing many of those activities in person.

As a Technology Integration Specialist in a school, my job relies on the use of ICTs. I work to find new and innovative ways to incorporate a variety of technologies into the classroom.  In my experience, many people question whether schools and classes should use technology.  It is generally accepted that today’s children are spending too much time using technology at home compared to generations past, and if so, then should technology be used to the extent that is in schools? Is technology use okay for children to use if it’s educational?  I believe that technology can enhance education both at home and in schools when used appropriately.  When it comes to appropriateness, this would also include the length of time a child is using a specific technology.  In his paper “Technology as a Social Practice”, Bruce Bertram (1996) argues, “There is thus a broad consensus that schools ought to be more technological, that teachers should be prepared to use the new tools, and that the curriculum ought to change to prepare students for a technological world” (p.1). In a globally connected world, it is important for children to be able to navigate a variety digital tools in order to be successful in school and in future work endeavors.  I believe that technology can provide significant opportunities and experiences to children that they would not otherwise be able to access.