Technology__Is_It_Worth_It_

Technology:Is It Worth It' In today’s world, people are becoming more dependent on computers and the Internet. Technology has become an integral part of our lives. But, is all this technology a necessity or not' In my opinion, computers and the Internet are both a necessity in today’s world and something that we can do without. From my own personal experience with computers and the Internet, I find myself frustrated with its technicalities, but without it I would be at a complete loss for many daily activities. One of my fondest memories iswatching my grandfather try so hard to figure out how to work his new computer. He was so sure he was ready to conquer this beast, yet the many beeps, pop-up windows, and the several required items that needed to be installed wore him out. A quote that I have lived by for many years is, “To err is human, but to really foul things up you need a computer” (ODHQ 65). With the use of my computer and the internet, I am able to go to school online, maintain my finances, and operate most of my volunteer duties. I also find myself completely frazzled and unable to operate this technology every day. Computers and the Internet have taken education to a whole new level. Today, if we are unable to attend school due to medical and/or schedule issues, we can continue oureducation through online learning. I am currently taking an online class because my schedule does not allow enough time away from home. We are able to find large number of resources from all over the world, right at our finger tips, on the Internet. We are no longer restricted by library hours and inventory limitations to complete our research. The computer and the Internet have made education a possibility for many, who were unable before. All the possibilities of education through technology come at a great risk. Having the capability to find so much information, in just a few clicks, leaves people lazy and ignorant. I believe that many people are now unable to locate a book at the library and navigate through it to find the information they seek. When researching online, you must be careful that the information you are getting is valid and credible. Public libraries are at risk of closures, as a result of increased use of computers and the Internet. People are relying completely on their computers, and no longer utilizing the great resources the public library has to offer. In my opinion, it will be a sad day when there are no public libraries. I find myself struggling in my online class more than I do in my traditional college class because I’m missing the opportunity to have the personal contact withand help from my teacher. In the work field, computers and the Internet have helped many people. This technology has not only helped people in finding jobs, but also makes some duties easier. Using a computer can help you create a professional resume. Searching the internet is an easy way to look for job openings and apply for them. In many jobs, people are able to organize, store, and retrieve data using minimal time and space. Some companies utilize SharePoint Portals, which can bring employees, at several locations together to collaborate and work on projects. What would happen if there were a major technical problem in the work place' When the Internet is not functioning correctly, people are useless until the problem is resolved. If a computer were to crash, very important data could be lost forever. Some people have become so used to technology, and are unable to do certain work by hand as people have done for the many years, before technology was available. I believe people today are seeing technology as a device that can do it all, and not for the pieces of plastic and metal it really is. In my house you will find each family member has their own personal computer. I use my computer daily, it gives me the capability to control my finances, stay connected with family and friends, and complete most of my volunteer tasks. For many years now, I have used a bank that has no local branch. The best way to check my balance, deposit checks, and pay bills is through online banking. Being a military family, I have family and friends that live throughout the US and in several foreign countries. Communication through technology has allowed me to stay in close contact with them, and I’m fortunate to be a part of their daily lives. I volunteer as a treasurer in an Army Family Readiness Group and as a leader in the Girl Scouts. Using technology I am able to do most of my banking, organizing, and coordinating for these activities. Having the luxury of this convenience gives me more time for my personal life. Being able to perform such tasks at home conveniently has not always been easy. I am a person that struggles with the complexity of technology. I’m unable to perform beyond the basic tasks of a computer and need assistance if problems arise. The information on the Internet is endless, and I worry that my children will be exposed to things beyond their maturity. My children have also become addicted to computer usage, and would use it all day if I didn’t monitor them. I cringe at the thought of them being so focused on computers, and missing the wonderful adventures that lie in the world outside of technology. There is also the risk of having so much of my personal and financial information on the Internet, that I am vulnerable to identity theft and other possible ways of becoming a victim. There are many benefits to using the computer and the Internet, when used wisely. We have opportunities to expand on our educational, professional, and personal lives with technology. We should use caution when using this technology, and not lose touch with the more important thingsin life. Real life personalinteractions is an experience no one can get with technology. Works Cited Sherrin, Ned. Oxford Dictionary of Humorous Quotations: 4th ed. New York: Oxford University Press, 2008. Print