We are immersed in it from birth in America, and it changes and develops quickly. Most four year-olds can type and send a comprehensive email faster than my dad can figure out how to log into his profile on our desktop. (He's only 45.) Technology builds on itself and evolves into smaller, faster, and more efficient forms every day. Look at the cell phone. In the 1980s, when my generation was being born, cell phones were few and far between...and they were HUGE. Just thirty some odd years later, people are using cell phones that allow them to access the Internet and search for anything, along with making phone calls to everyone they know. Oh, and the size has gotten ridiculous at times.
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| Ben Stiller gets a phone call in Zoolander. (2001) |
Technology plays a big part in my life as well. All my professors depend on the Internet to communicate with their students on a daily basis. I try to check my email everyday, and even if I can't, I log in to Facebook once a day anyways. My cell phone is junk, but it lets me make phone calls so it serves it's purpose. I've taken classes to educate myself on the usage of Photoshop, Illustrator, and After Effects. I have made three-dimensional animations on the computer before, and incorporated them into my artwork.
I am amazed at how technology is being used in today's classrooms, because when I was in elementary school back in the 20th century we didn't really have much. For being good in class we might get a chance to play educational games and Oregon Trail on one of these guys:
yeah, I know. I always died of Dysentery, too.
I am extremely excited that educational systems are introducing children to computer technology early. My 7 year old brother can access the Internet easier than our dad can successfully left click to open the Start menu. With children learning about technology so early in school, their generations will be light years ahead of their parents once they enter the workforce and college.
There are several problems with this though, as with any good thing.
I have witnessed first-hand what happens when young minds aren't monitored and technological recreation isn't controlled in moderation. My youngest brother can beat me at Wii bowling but is behind his fellow classmates in reading and math. I admit, video games are cool, but they are severely detrimental to young minds if they are allowed to become babysitters.
Final word:
Technology.
Like meatloaf, it's good for your bones.
