behs103 week 1 discussion (dq1+dq2) latest 2017 november

Week 1 discussion

DQ1

What is technology?

Instructions for this discussion topic

Review each of the following resources and respond to the questions posed below. In this course, it is a good practice to take notes on the videos and readings so that you can begin to integrate the concepts covered in each. This will also be helpful when you take your quizzes.

Overview of the historical impact of technology

Kelly, K. (2009).Technology’s epic story. Available at: http://www.ted.com/talks/lang/en/kevin_kelly_tells_technology_s_epic_story.html

Diamond, J. (May 1, 1987). The worst mistake in the history of the human race. Discover Magazine, 64-66. Available at: http://discovermagazine.com/1987/may/02-the-worst-mistake-in-the-history-of-the-human-race#.Uu73L_ldWSo

Some technologies that have helped to change the world

Anthony, D. W. (1994). Moving life forward. Faces (07491387), 11(1), 14. Available at: http://ezproxy.umuc.edu/login?url=http://search.ebscohost.com/login.aspx?direct=true&db=f5h&AN=9410050431&site=eds-live&scope=site

Popular Mechanics (n.d.). 101 Gadgets that changed the world. Available at: http://www.popularmechanics.com/technology/gadgets/reviews/101-gadgets-that-changed-the-world#slide-1

Dvorsky, G. (2012). Ten inventions that changed the world in ways we didn’t expect. Available at: http://io9.com/5951267/10-inventions-that-changed-the-world-in-ways-we-didnt-expect

Discussion questions:

1) Based on the resources provided above, how would you define technology? Be sure to use your own words!

2) What are some of the key points made by Kevin Kelly regarding the role of technology in the evolution of humanity? Do you agree with his main arguments? Why or why not?

3) According to Diamond, what is the worst mistake in the history of the human race? What does this mistake have to do with technology and society?

4) What do you think are the top 3 most important technologies of all time? Justify your choices.

5) What is your own favorite technology? Explain your choice.

Remember that in order to earn full credit for discussion participation, you are to must respond fully to every question and submit your best writing. Remember that you must respond to at least two of your classmates before the end of the academic week.

Your responses to the discussion and to your classmates are due on Sunday evening at 11:59 PM EST. Manage your time wisely so that you do not incur a late penalty (refer to the syllabus). Time passes quickly in an 8 week course. Don’t procrastinate!

DQ2

Black out!

On July 30, 2012, the world’s biggest blackout took place in India when three major power grids collapsed. To learn more about the story, visit: http://www.cbsnews.com/8301-202_162-57483166/india-blackout-worsens-620m-in-dark/

How do you think you would survive a power blackout?

Although it may seem a little counter-intuitive, we are going to start our consideration of technology in modern society by removing technology from our modern lives. This will lay an important foundation for the remainder of the course. This week, you are to pick one 24-hour period in which you avoid technology as much as possible. This includes the use of the following:

Cell phone and handheld devices

Computers, laptops, tablets

Television

Video games

Smart phones

iPods, MP3, radio

any other mobile device

Stove/Oven/Microwave

Dishwasher

For an extra challenge: start your day by filling large containers with as much water as you think you might be able to haul from a river or outside well and use only that water throughout the day instead of relying on water from tap.

Obviously, if you must use any of these devices to perform your job or to keep children safe and healthy, you may do so. You may use kitchen appliances to prepare your meals (I don't want your family to go hungry!) and turn your air conditioning or heat on to keep your family comfortable, but during your blackout day, avoid as much modern technology as possible while you are at home. Be very mindful of the technologies that you use or avoid during the day and how this impacts your ability to function. The objective of this exercise is to help you to appreciate the ways in which technology impacts your functioning in everyday life. If you have other family members, see if they will participate with you and use this opportunity to talk about how technology impacts your life as a family.

After you have completed your blackout period, respond to the following questions in 2-3 paragraphs:

What technologies were you aware of using that past generations did not have? How do these technologies impact your life?

What technologies did you give up during your blackout?

What did you miss the most and why?

How did the absence of these devices impact you in the home, workplace and other areas of your life?

Throughout the week, please respond substantively to at least 2 classmates for this discussion topic.