Where is the wisdom we have lost with knowledge. Where is knowledge we have lost in information.
-T.S Eliot
Computers emphasize thinking based on data, numbers, quantifiable entities. They discourage focus on judgement and values. They encourage the making of fancy charts based on complex computations, but discourage deep thought about the purpose to which the charts will be put or the validity and meaning of the data. They encourage surfing the Net, looking for facts; they discourage discussion with others of what we found and the ability to defend a point of view in conversation. -Sara Baase
The above statement says allot, not only about what computers and internet have given us but about what it has taken away. Arguments arise in households frequently about the truth and validity of information on the internet. And I'm certain that my household is not the only lonely one to run across it.
"Well mom/dad this famous person's website says that global warming is true, so therefore it must be true". I normally respond to such statements like "Why must it be true"? Where is the evidence that supports this theory. I usually get a reply that has the tone of "well my teacher and this website say its so".
I think this is a major problem. Yes the Net has provided us (especially our children) with an abundance of information. What it has not done (especially for our children) is explain how to sift through, check, and measure the truthfulness of that information. When I, and probably most of my readers where in school, computers and the internet were not as accessible as they are today. So when I had a paper due in social studies, it was hit the library, do your research, record your sources and then write your paper. Today the first resource is the Internet and even better why not find a subject matter that interests you, an author that has your same stance on the issue on their webpage then just use that material. Not a bad idea, I was always told work smarter not harder. I myself am guilty of this when it comes to developing software. I had a professor who once told me, if someone else has already written it, why write it again. In programming languages this holds true with no real fault to it, as long as you give credit to the original author. But in argumentative political, economical, religious matters etc. This type of approach has terrible consequences, taking away an individuals own interpretation of the subject.
So the internet with its great amount of information and ease of use, can turn potentially harmful. Especially when over used, or too heavily relied upon in academics. Middle school and high school I think abuse this powerful tool. Tools are great, but we as a society need to teach and show the youth of today how to use them, to educate themselves not just make life easier. Google is the best search engine ever, however the material it finds is still written by people: students, freaks, politicians, lawyers, religious nuts etc. etc. So check the facts behind what we and our children read and write down. If not your citation sheet could read.
Internet Article
ISaidSo, Because."Fanatic on Facebook and MySpace "
Ecological Findings 3.2 (2010): www.noneedforproofIhavemyownwebpage.com
