Unit 6, Issue 18

Are People Better Informed in the Information Society?

Overall, people are better informed in the information society thanks to technological developments and fast access. Between cell phone's ability to do everything from; connect to the internet, text message your boss, face time your significant other, call your grandmother overseas, check your bank account, and get your daily news and e-mails, it's as if society's life fits in the palm of their hand. The question remains though, just because the quantity of information and interaction has increased...is there still a high level of quality communication? In the research provided in this article, lower-income children are provided with computers and internet access to see how much or little their success shifts based on the technology provided. In the "yes" argument they write, "having a home computer has been associated with having higher test scores in reading, even after controlling for family income and other factors related to reading test scores".

The "no" argument is quite compelling as well. Bauerlein says, "All the ingredients for making an informed and intelligent citizen are in place. But it hasn't happened". He argues that the average American citizen, particularly the youth has become so absorbed in their immediate social network that they have abandoned caring about their local communities and global issues. It is as if  the progression of technology is moving us backwards. I must admit personally, I don't think increased technology is a good or bad thing it is just change that society must adapt to.