Technology in Action, Ninth EditionAnswer Key Chapter 1

BUZZ WORDS

Word Bank

affective computing

augmented reality

autonomy

collaborative consumption

computer literate

creative surplus

crisis mapping tools

crowdsourcing

data mining

digital divide

information technology (IT)

mastery

purpose

social networking

Instructions: Fill in the blanks using the words from the Word Bank above.

Technology allows each of us to become a powerful force in changing the world. It might be that we use (1) crisis mapping tools to help during a time of unexpected disaster. Perhaps we can help address the gap between those with easy access to technology and those with limited access, the (2) digital divide, using modern tools. We are all much more connected through the development of (3) social networking systems. Because we can share our skills and knowledge so easily, the (4) cognitive surplus available is producing even more tools and free software. There is an increasing incentive to use (5)

collaborative consumption to reduce pressures on the environment and share the use of objects. Technology is also helping those with social disabilities as new tools from the area of (6) affective computing help people integrate better into society. (7) Augmented reality is growing as we are blending the information available to us directly into our environment with tools like SixthSense. Our understanding of human motivation is becoming more refined so we can capitalize on the things that engage people, to use and create solutions. (8) Autonomy, a sense of independence; (9) mastery, the ability to improve your skill level; and (10) purpose, the drive to help beyond just your own immediate needs, are forces that will direct us toward solving the challenges we face locally, socially, and globally.

MULTIPLE CHOICEInstructions: Answer the multiple-choice and true/false questions below for more practice with key terms and concepts from this chapter.

1. Which is NOT a technology that has been used to deliver assistance during times of crisis?

a. Ushahidi

b. QR codes

c. SwiftRiver

d. e-mail

2. Artists interface with technology often, but cannot yet

a. use computers to generate images that respond to the environment.

b. use computers to create a virtual storefront.

c. use software to suggest plot endings.

d. use software to create and enhance virtual performances.

3. People who do not read emotion easily in others hope for new progress in the field of

a. affective computing.

b. data mining.

c. bioprinting.

d. forensic science.

4. Studies reveal that human motivation is fostered by

a. increasing levels of mastery.

b. the ability to self-direct.

c. directing your work toward a higher goal than just your own needs.

d. all of the above.

5. Collaborative consumption is when people get together to

a. find the best prices on products.

b. exchange reviews on services and goods they have purchased.

c. fight diseases of the respiratory tract.

d. increase the use of a single product by sharing access to it.

6. Social networking tools

a. played a part in revolutions in 2011.

b. are limited to social dating.

c. have encouraged increased censorship in the U.S.

d. include software like Microsoft Office and Adobe Illustrator.

7. Computer forensics uses computer systems and technology to

a. simulate a person’s anatomical system.

b. train law enforcement officers to be more effective.

c. create a crisis map.

d. gather potential legal evidence.

8. IT is the abbreviation for

a. information training.

b. Internet training.

c. Internet technology.

d. information technology.

9. Which allows retailers to respond to consumer buying patterns?

a. RFID tags

b. Data mining

c. Smart labels

d. Bluetooth technology

10. The crisis of a growing digital divide is being addressed by

a. Ushahidi.

b. the Next Einstein project.

c. the Freecycle program.

d. building faster computers.

True–False

__T___ 1. Researchers believe that microchips may one day restore sight to the blind.

__F___ 2. QR codes let companies track your past purchases and customize offers for you.

__T___ 3. Supercomputers can accurately forecast tornadoes within minutes.

__F___ 4. Criminal investigators may find evidence on a computer, but that evidence cannot be used in court.

__T___ 5. Many modern museums offer WiFi networks and multimedia downloads to their patrons to enrich their experience.

Technology in Action, Ninth EditionAnswer Key Chapter 1

BUZZ WORDS

Word Bank

affective computing

augmented reality

autonomy

collaborative consumption

computer literate

creative surplus

crisis mapping tools

crowdsourcing

data mining

digital divide

information technology (IT)

mastery

purpose

social networking

Instructions: Fill in the blanks using the words from the Word Bank above.

Technology allows each of us to become a powerful force in changing the world. It might be that we use (1) crisis mapping tools to help during a time of unexpected disaster. Perhaps we can help address the gap between those with easy access to technology and those with limited access, the (2) digital divide, using modern tools. We are all much more connected through the development of (3) social networking systems. Because we can share our skills and knowledge so easily, the (4) cognitive surplus available is producing even more tools and free software. There is an increasing incentive to use (5)

collaborative consumption to reduce pressures on the environment and share the use of objects. Technology is also helping those with social disabilities as new tools from the area of (6) affective computing help people integrate better into society. (7) Augmented reality is growing as we are blending the information available to us directly into our environment with tools like SixthSense. Our understanding of human motivation is becoming more refined so we can capitalize on the things that engage people, to use and create solutions. (8) Autonomy, a sense of independence; (9) mastery, the ability to improve your skill level; and (10) purpose, the drive to help beyond just your own immediate needs, are forces that will direct us toward solving the challenges we face locally, socially, and globally.

MULTIPLE CHOICEInstructions: Answer the multiple-choice and true/false questions below for more practice with key terms and concepts from this chapter.

1. Which is NOT a technology that has been used to deliver assistance during times of crisis?

a. Ushahidi

b. QR codes

c. SwiftRiver

d. e-mail

2. Artists interface with technology often, but cannot yet

a. use computers to generate images that respond to the environment.

b. use computers to create a virtual storefront.

c. use software to suggest plot endings.

d. use software to create and enhance virtual performances.

3. People who do not read emotion easily in others hope for new progress in the field of

a. affective computing.

b. data mining.

c. bioprinting.

d. forensic science.

4. Studies reveal that human motivation is fostered by

a. increasing levels of mastery.

b. the ability to self-direct.

c. directing your work toward a higher goal than just your own needs.

d. all of the above.

5. Collaborative consumption is when people get together to

a. find the best prices on products.

b. exchange reviews on services and goods they have purchased.

c. fight diseases of the respiratory tract.

d. increase the use of a single product by sharing access to it.

6. Social networking tools

a. played a part in revolutions in 2011.

b. are limited to social dating.

c. have encouraged increased censorship in the U.S.

d. include software like Microsoft Office and Adobe Illustrator.

7. Computer forensics uses computer systems and technology to

a. simulate a person’s anatomical system.

b. train law enforcement officers to be more effective.

c. create a crisis map.

d. gather potential legal evidence.

8. IT is the abbreviation for

a. information training.

b. Internet training.

c. Internet technology.

d. information technology.

9. Which allows retailers to respond to consumer buying patterns?

a. RFID tags

b. Data mining

c. Smart labels

d. Bluetooth technology

10. The crisis of a growing digital divide is being addressed by

a. Ushahidi.

b. the Next Einstein project.

c. the Freecycle program.

d. building faster computers.

True–False

__T___ 1. Researchers believe that microchips may one day restore sight to the blind.

__F___ 2. QR codes let companies track your past purchases and customize offers for you.

__T___ 3. Supercomputers can accurately forecast tornadoes within minutes.

__F___ 4. Criminal investigators may find evidence on a computer, but that evidence cannot be used in court.

__T___ 5. Many modern museums offer WiFi networks and multimedia downloads to their patrons to enrich their experience.

making the transition to…next semester

1. Computer Literacy

In your college career, you’ll be spending time understanding the requirements of the degree program you choose. At many schools, computer literacy requirements exist either as incoming requirements (skills students must have before they are admitted) or as outgoing requirements (skills students must prove they have before graduating). Does your program require specific computer skills? Which skills are these? Should they be required? How can students efficiently prove that they have these skills? How often does the set of skills need to be reviewed and updated?

Students today are expected to be computer literate. Students should look on the Web site for their institution to determine overall requirements. If a student is planning to transfer, the requirements at the next institution should also be considered. The choice of career will affect the specific learning requirements during college. For example, majoring in architecture may require learning computer-aided design programs such as AutoCAD. Majoring in business may require learning business productivity software. No matter what discipline is selected, a student should address the need to continually update technology skills as software changes and device capabilities increase.

2. The Mind of the Mob

Crowdsourcing is the gathering of data in real time, as it happens, from a growing crowd of people. Because of the large number of students who now own phones with Internet access, crowdsourcing on campus could start to be useful. In what settings would making decisions based on information from a gathering crowd on campus be valuable? How would you react to your professor using a form of crowdsourcing to determine your grade on an essay?

Students should consider what types of questions or issues are best to settle by group consensus and which are best to settle by having a trained professional making a judgment. There might be a middle ground as in a trial where professionals see that information (evidence) is fairly presented, but individuals from the general population make the judgment. The time element (instant judgment) may be a critical element students focus on, and students may question if a crowd can be manipulated to reach the decision a small group wants.

3. Mobile Push

A mobile application called Keyring allows you to download and store all the rewards program cards you use for the supermarket, Best Buy, the pharmacy, and so on. You can quickly scan from your phone “card” to the register at checkout and also let the companies push coupons and information to you. Would a system like this be useful on your campus? What kind of information could the college push to your mobile device that would be helpful?

Students may approach this question in various ways. What departments or organizations might want to push information to students? What information might students want pushed to them? How would decisions be made concerning which students get which information? Students should consider whether their privacy would be respected, as well as whether this type of situation might result in another source of “information overload.”

4. Recycle, Repair, Redistribute

The Microsoft authorized refurbisher program and TechSoup both help provide resources to people in need to reduce the barrier of the digital divide. These organizations recycle hardware and supply software inexpensively to needy families. How could a program be set up at your school to make people aware of these options? Could students donate materials or retrofit systems as part of their coursework? As part of a club activity? How could you make these programs work for your community?

This is a three-part question. Responses should include ways to make students aware of a program to recycle technology components to those who are less fortunate. Making a donation might be considered as an example of buying a grade. However, another viewpoint is that a donation to this type of cause could be seen as building social responsibility, which can be a goal of education. Student answers to this question should include reasons for the statements. Asking students to come up with ways to make such a program successful gives an opportunity to point out potential challenges and how to overcome them.

5. Military Computing

Review the computer science programs at the U.S. Air Force Academy (www.usafa.af.mil), the U.S. Military Academy at West Point (www.usma.edu), and the U.S. Naval Academy (www.usna.edu). What specific courses or paths of study do these institutions have that are specific to military settings? What information do the department’s Web sites provide on why an understanding of computers matters to the military? How would this training support a transition from a military career to the civilian workplace?

Responses to this question should show an awareness of courses at these institutions dealing with the theory and principles behind military IT. The high priority of security is a related topic to consider. The use of technology in all areas of specialization within the military is another pertinent topic, which also addresses the question of transition from the military to the civilian workplace.

making the transition to…the workplace

1. The Productivity Paradox

In this chapter, we highlighted several careers that require computer skills. With all of the advancements in computing technology, you might expect to see a great rise in workforce productivity, yet statistics since 2004 report a decline in productivity. How is this possible? Do you think it applies in the profession you are in or plan to enter? Can you think of reasons for which the increased use of computers would decrease productivity? How has the shift toward more technology in your personal life impacted you? Are you more or less productive there? How do computers affect creativity?

Students can search online and in a few moments realize how the Internet has helped decrease productivity. Guide students to track their own online and computer use for a day. How much time was spent on educational work versus entertainment? If the students are brave enough to do it, have them try going 24 hours without accessing the Internet, using a smart phone, or using a computer. Have them manually track the times when they needed to use the technology to accomplish a task. Compare the two lists and review with the

class. There are also numerous articles that discuss the reduction in productivity. Find an article in a legitimate journal or academic publication and report on your findings back to the class.

2. Patients and Medical Computing

There are some major changes in the flow of medical information that impact patients every day. As more hospitals and doctor’s offices begin to use electronic medical records (EMRs), the flow of information among the different doctors and care facilities a patient uses could become much more reliable. In their training and work, doctors and nurses rely on computers. What about patients? Examine Google Health at health.google.com for an example of an electronic medical history. How does this migration from a traditional paper records system impact the skills required for medical office workers? New ethical questions also often arise when technology changes. How would a medical facility now protect and verify its data records? What risks are there with a product like Google Health?

Although health.google.com is no longer available, similar options are available. For example, you can transfer your health data to another personal health record provider such as Microsoft HealthVault. What privacy issues are involved? Students can express their views on using this type of system, including potential benefits and risks.

Use the Internet to look into the new technologies that are being used in doctor/dentist offices, hospitals, medical centers or other health care providers. What concerns do you have regarding the accuracy of the records? What happens if someone accidentally enters the wrong information or if your information is accessed for malicious reasons?

3. Retail: Dare to Compare

Companies often must balance both online and “bricks and mortar” environments now. What uses of QR codes would be attractive to a company selling products to 18- to 25-year-olds? How can a company best price merchandise competitively knowing that customers are using resources like PriceGrabber (www.pricegrabber.com)?

Students should understand that QR codes send them to a Web site that can contain product information. The types if information, product reviews, pricing, videos on product usage, or advantages of this product should be

mentioned. On the question regarding a store’s response to price grabber, students should mention how technology makes it easy to change a price at a store by simply changing the price in the software that is reading the barcode and attaching a price and name to the barcode. Other ways a store might respond might be by offering a coupon with a purchase or another item of value. A key concept to notice is that a retail store needs to monitor the competition through technology, and it can respond using technology.

4. Viral Advertising

With the widespread use of video on the Web, many companies find it essential to have an online video presence to generate interest in their products. A very successful strategy is to build a series of videos, all interrelated pieces of a single story, and “leak” them one by one, building excitement by word of mouth. Heineken brewers had a very successful campaign that went “viral,” ending with a short video, The Entrance. Find other examples of successful use of video viral marketing. What would be the required skill set for someone interested in a career in viral marketing?

Students need to know that marketing videos involve a team of experts, each making specific contributions. While expertise in one skill set might get a person entrance as a team member, the person becomes more valuable to the team as greater understanding is gained about other aspects involved in creating videos. Specific skills would include writing, (both the mechanics involved and creative writing), cinema photography, all post-production skills, and marketing. All members need to speak and write well in order to express their ideas to other team members.

5. Social Media Careers

With the explosion of users on social media sites, businesses need to establish their presence on social media sites. Just search for “Vans” or “Starbucks” on Facebook for examples of company sites. To manage their interaction with customers (and fans), companies need to hire social media managers. Using a job site such as Monster.com, search on “social media manager” and review the job postings. What are the educational requirements for social media managers? What technical skills do these jobs require? Given your major, what companies would you do well for as a social media manager? What steps should you take while in school to prepare yourself for a career as a social media manager?

Students can search on CareerBuilder.com and other job sites for social media positions. Define what a social media manager does and provide a job description to the class. Is this something you could do? How can you use your technical skills to develop a career as a social media manager in your area? Is this career something that has long-term potential or might you move into a different role? Are there any specific skills that you need to be ready for this role? What educational requirements exist? Are there any organizations you need to join? What kind of technical experience will you have to have to do this well?

6. Portfolio of Electronic Skills

Job seekers want to highlight their skills for prospective employers—show employers both what they can do right now to contribute and provide evidence that they can learn quickly and grow into new technologies and new responsibilities. What skills could you place in a portfolio to demonstrate your current mastery of computer concepts and computer applications? How would you document for your employer your ability to learn, quickly adapt to changes in technology, and acquire new skills?

Some majors use portfolios to demonstrate skills and talent. A great way to highlight your talents in technology is to create an electronic record of competency. When asked if you are a beginner, intermediate, or advanced user, you need to know what classifies each level. How can the portfolio you create be shared with a potential employer? How can you demonstrate your competency? Earning your degree does not guarantee that you have the skills necessary for the career you have chosen, so you have to make sure that you can prove to any potential employer that you possess the skills necessary to grow with that organization. Discuss the different types of portfolios that are best suited for different career paths.

critical thinking questions

1. You in the World

This chapter lists many ways in which becoming computer literate is beneficial. Think of a global issue that especially calls to you. What areas of computing

would be most important for you to understand in order to contribute to addressing this challenge? How would an understanding of computer hardware and software help in connecting you with the people involved and contributing your talents?

The response given by students should relate the problem they identify with using computing skills to help solve the problem. A student should be able to state what skills he/she would need to have in order to make a contribution to solving this issue.

2. Interactive Art

This chapter briefly discusses the integration of computer technology and art. Pieces like Flight Time at the Museum of Modern Art use the vast amounts of data around us to create images and interactive exhibits that are visually exciting. What kind of design can you envision that brings the data around us into an interactive, visual experience of beauty? What computer skills would you need to acquire to make that a reality?

The MOMA has an iPhone application that links to the museum and features images and information on the collections, schedules of exhibitions, and an interactive handheld tour of the museum. Knowing that this exists, what can you create to help bring the exhibits to life in the museum and out? Must you be an art major to be best suited for a career of this type or could you be an art aficionado who is technically savvy? What additional courses should a student take to be ready for this career? There are key technical skills that are needed to work with MOMA; what would give you the edge to get the job?

3. Perception of Truth

As you learned in this chapter, computer simulations are incredibly sophisticated tools. Given that the public knows that images and videos can be easily edited digitally, what role do you think simulations will play in the legal system? What impact would a simulation, a video, or an image have on a jury in deciding “truth” when the public knows that these items can be manipulated digitally?

Computers and technology have given different industries the power to develop realistic what-if scenarios and play out the alternatives. As discussed

in the chapter, there are medical assistance tools that allow precision in surgical methods. This has minimized recovery time and ensured exacting precision in surgery. Are you more willing to undergo a procedure knowing that the surgeon has such a device to assist? In the legal system, both sides of a case can use computer simulations to prove a client innocent or convict a perpetrator. Are you comfortable knowing that technology can be used to explain or demonstrate data in a way that is not necessarily true? When appropriate, have students present their viewpoint to the class. This could result in a spirited discussion that also calls ethical issues into question.

4. …and Bandwidth for All

In 2010, Google announced it would select a group of communities in the United States to create an experimental fiber-optic network providing Internet connection speed of 1 Gb/s, about 300 times the average broadband service. How would that kind of access change the way you live? How would it change the community in which you live? What new applications would be possible? Are there disadvantages you can identify? Does this program solve the digital divide or make it even more prominent?

Again, this is a good topic to discuss from an ethical standpoint. What kind of area is selected? Is it an impoverished area or an upscale area? How could this benefit those who live in the area? If you lived in that area, what could it do for you? Could you start your own business? Might you learn a new skill as a result? When appropriate, discuss in small groups and brainstorm opportunities together. Then present findings to the class.

5. Affective Computing

Affective computing is the science that attempts to produce machines that understand and can respond to human emotions and social mores. Do you think humans will ever create a machine that cannot be distinguished from a human being? In your opinion, what are the ethical and moral implications associated with that development?

For years the Turing Prize has been supporting efforts to find computers that behave like humans. So far, it has not been possible to have a computer mimic a human’s behavior completely. Can computers learn human behavior or learn to be more human like? These days, consumers often speak to a

computer when phoning customer service departments for a company. The computer understands key words and sometimes handles the complete transaction such as paying a bill, scheduling an appointment, listing bank transactions, and other basic tasks. Consumers have begun interacting with these computers and at times forgetting that there is not a human being on the other end of the phone. If your situation is conducive, divide the class into small groups and ask classmates to detail similar experiences and the implications in their future endeavors. Present findings to the class.

6. The World Stage

How might access to (or denial of) electronic information improve the education of a country’s citizens? Could that affect who the world’s next technology power will be? Could it eliminate third world status? Examine the ideas behind the Next Einstein Initiative project at www.nexteinstein.org to explore this further. What consequence might developments in Africa have on you, your family, and your experiences?

This is a great topic to cover from an ethical perspective. Is it ethical to prevent access to information just because a particular geographic area is not as developed? Should a more developed country control access to knowledge and information? How about the students in the class? Are any of them from less developed countries? Have them discuss the reality where they came from versus the opportunities in your location. How has technology improved their career opportunities? When possible, discuss in smaller groups and then discuss as a class.