Discussion Questions (pg. 420 #s 4, 6, 11-13)

4) I think that technology will soon replace many jobs that humans take over nowadays. I think it's very efficient, but I also think it's not the best thing to do. Sure, technology can ASSIST humans so that there are less random/human errors. With technology there can be systematic errors, though, but it reduces other errors that come from us. It wouldn't be the best idea because these workers might have that as their only job in the world (as of now). If that job is taken away from them, how will they make a living? Or what if they can't find anotehr job with the same/more pay? It'll affect the workers and their families negatively, but as mentioned before, it'll help reduce random errors.

6) I agree that our children are becoming too independent on computers, calculators, and technology overall, but in a way it also helps. If our students are less concerned with the detailed, smaller things they need to get done, they can get MORE done in less time. But on the flipside, it's also harmful to the students because then they have become DEPENDENT thinkers, not independent thinkers like they probably should be. They will always be relying on something or someone else to help give them answers while they can easily train themselves to do these simple tasks on their own (even if they take a bit more time, with practice it'll become easier and take less time).

11)

12) I think that home computers strengthen families and communities but at the same time also weaken them. When one is too addicted to computers, they spend less time with family. But on the other hand, if there's a family with relatives overseas, then computers can be very helpful. They can chat, go on webcam, use the mic, and everything else that comes with it to keep in touch and always "be together". They can also strengthen communities because there can be many people working to help the community grow or help make programs and get the youth together, and by keeping in touch with computers they can get a lot more done than just having "one on one" meetings and being unable to meet up unless they're physically together. That's one main example of how they would be very useful.

13) I think it all depends on the person using it. If the person gets easily attached to it, then it'll make them less creative. If the person using it can figure out how to use it to their advantage and use it wisely, then it's something that can definitely help them be more creative.