Technology and Us: Optimism vs. Pessimism

Now that we have explored different information and opinion, including the data of your own life, it's time to revisit your perspective(s) on technology's influence.

1.) What information about technology surprised you the most? Why?

2.) In what ways has technology changed your life? Discuss an area with as much detail and explanation as you can. Example, you could tell us your opinion on how technology impacts intimacy, anxiety, sleep cycles, surveillance, critical thinking, the need to be "famous"/public, etc, etc. Any area you feel technology has significantly impacted you and your world.

3.) In what ways do you think technology is changing our future (work, learning, communication, relationships, etc.)?

4.) Describe your perspective towards technology. Are you more of an optimist or a pessimist? Why? Explain.

Criteria: 

•  Present a thoughtful discussion and argument on the topic: Technology’s influence
• Select 2-3 distinct areas to comment on (ex: creative thought, privacy, biopower)
• P.E.E. to explain and support your opinion
• Edit for grammar, spelling and expression
• I encourage you to comment on each others' arguments and ideas.

What the World is Saying About Technology and Our Humanity: Do You Agree?

Hi gang, as we delve into some theories, facts, statistics and experiences based on how technology impacts our daily lives and broader world consider these views: Do you think they're correct? What critiques do you have?

* "Is Google Making Us Stupid?" The Atlantic

* An Ugly Toll of Technology: The NY Times

* "Growing Up Digital: Wired for Distraction": The New York Times

* Sherry Turkle: "Connected, but alone?"

Task: Read and view the following texts and comment
1.) What claims do the authors make that you agree with? Why? Explain
2.) What critiques do you have of any of their arguments or claims? What have they left out?

Due: Sunday, Dec. 9th

Week 14: What to Expect

Mon. Dec. 3rd:
* Poetic Device Terms Test and Poetry Synthesis write

Tues. Dec. 4th:
* Mid-Year Reflection and Action Plan
* Individual Technology Log Due Tomorrow

Wed. Dec. 5th:
Technology Exploration Mini-Unit
* How has technology affected you? How has it changed our world?
* Powerpoint and discussion: Class explores infobesity and how technology is affecting our humanity
* View of Digital Nation's clips

Thurs. Dec. 6th:

* Class round robin exploring technology's impact on relationships, privacy, 

and intimacy
* Key statistics and information (ex: data-mining, etc.)
* Explore more Digital Nation

Fri. Dec. 7th:
* Week 7 & 8 Vocabulary Quiz
* "Internet Addiction"
* Powerpoint and class discussion on Our Virtual Futures
* Complete Technology Record and Ideas