Ten Years of Wikipedia

http://www.edtechtalk.com/EdTechWeekly180

The presentation I did attend on ed tech talk.com was “Ten years of Wikipedia”. The two presenters were John Schinker and Dave Cormier. The presenters basically talked about how far Wikipedia has improved over the past ten years. Many people may think of Wikipedia is an online encyclopedia that is a reliable source of information. However, that is not always the case. Wikipedia was created for everyday people to build an encyclopedia with information they have researched.  

Schinker and Cormier discussed both the arguments for and against Wikipedia. People, who favor Wikipedia, like that people with regular careers or students, have access to writing and editing information about a specific topic.  It also allows updates frequently instead of having to come up with a new edition. People, who are against Wikipedia, argue that people may receive the wrong information and submit it to Wikipedia. They also argue that Wikipedia does not always have appropriate professionals, such as experts in a profession or Doctors that usually write reliable books, articles etc. 

During the presentation, I learned some interesting facts about Wikipedia. On average, Wikipedia has 140 million people who edit the site a month. Another interesting fact is Wikipedia is written in 250 different languages. After listening to this presentation, I realize I am more of a supporter for Wikipedia. I would not use it as a reference in a paper; however I support the idea that all people have access to contributing to this online encyclopedia.

Digital Nation

After viewing the video “Digital Nation”, I have learned some interesting information on how technology is used and the possible disadvantages it is doing to the human race. Even though the conclusion was that technology is neither good nor bad, but just complicated, I feel this video focus mainly on the negative impacts on technology. In the beginning of the video, it talks about how people tend to think that with technology, it has increase their multitasking skills. However, studies have shown that multitasking makes a person slower, unable to focus on one task and easily distracted. I must confess that I always believed that being able to multitask was one good characteristic I have. However, after this video, I have notice that I am easily distracted and have difficulties remaining on one task for a long period of time.

The video also discussed how technology has cause a public health crisis. For an example, they talk about South Koreans addiction to video games. There have been incidents of individuals being engaged with a video game for long periods of time (over 24 hours) and have forgotten to eat or drink anything. Due to this, there have been cases of people dying at gaming sites.  It also talks about how due to technology, adolescents and adults have developed lack of communication among each other. Because of the health crisis, South Koreans have developed digital rehabilitation camps for addicted gamers. In my opinion, I believe adults have allowed this to happen. As a parent, it is their responsibility to monitor and choose their child’s activities. Playing video games, computer games, and using other electronic devices are beneficial, however too much of a good thing can turn into a bad thing. There should be a limit of usage with electronics for minors. 

Overall I really enjoyed the video. It was a lengthy video, and I was worried about getting bored. However, it kept me engaged. I learn a lot of useful information from the video. This video has allowed me to be more aware of some of my habits I have using technology. I am eager to learn more about technology and how it can be utilize in both my professional and personal life effectively.

All about Shantay

Hi my name is Shantay. I'm originally from New Hampshire but have relocated to the west coast for a little awhile. However I am back to pursue my Masters in Elementary Education. I have receive my undergraduate degree at Southern NH University with a BA in Psychology. I decided to pursue a career in social services. After four years working in social services, I realize it is not my passion. I enjoy working with adolescent in needs of services, however I decided to go another route. Teaching. I feel as a teacher I can help students reach their dreams and become successful in the future. I think with my degree in psychology and with my professional experience, it will help me become a great teacher.