Journal #5

“Can You Hear Me Now?” by Sherry Turkle

Turkle describes our world with technology as one that is staying connected without actually being so. She explains that people are constantly on their cell phones and computers instead of interacting with others, say at a conference or in a taxi. Many people consider it making the most of their time, but Turkle does not necessarily agree. She speaks of five things in particular that she believes are not beneficial within the web. The first is the second life or online personalities that people have the opportunity to form, in order to escape from the real world if only for a moment. The second is that we have become so consumed with technology that we no longer just take the time to sit and think uninterrupted. The third is that adolescents are given cell phones and do not get the same experiences that they would if they did not have their parents at their fingertips. The fourth one is that we have become accustomed to living our lives publicly through facebook and myspace. Lastly, she speaks of splitting our lives among the world of technology and the real world itself. The lines have become sort of blurred.

Is it possible that technology has the ability to take over the traditional classroom?
I do not necessarily find it to be threatening, but it has definitely made its way into education. With classes run completely online and almost every assignment done on the computer, it is certainly present. I think that it is better to embrace some forms of technology in the classroom, but stick to the things that have been using for years, books, and a pencil and paper!

Is it necessary to have computers in the classroom?
I think that it can definitely be beneficial for students to have access to computers, especially if they do not have one at home. A computer lab on campus, would prove to be just as helpful. There are many programs that can contribute to understanding and compliment the curriculum.