An Understanding of How Changes in Technology Impact on the Way Humans Communicate and the Ethical Issues That Surround These Changes - Blog 3

From the first computer to the new the Iphone X, there are continuously changes to technology. We must adapt to new software and as developers simplify and create new applications. The new technology opportunities that we are given should be used and balanced out with our everyday lives. Though there are many benefits to technology as individuals we need to be cautious of the way we use it.

Every year there are new additions to the technological world. As a society, we are drawn to new and exciting machinery that may change the future. It might do this by being simpler than the last version or be a totally new advancement.  Let’s look at applications for example. All smart phones are able to download apps whether it be for games, news or even communications like Facebook. It has become evident that we rely on our phones to make events, connect with friends and family etc.

Though there are also some issues that arise with communications due to the constant upgrades in technology. As individuals and as a community we are losing the ability to have normal face to face conversations. A personal pet peeve of mine is having a conversation with someone and the other person looking down at their phone.  An ethical issue that is becoming a more evident problem, is the fact some individuals are focusing more on what their online personalities are rather that the ‘real world’ networks. Creating these alter-egos that separate their relationships to real people and real situations.

An example of change in communication is in the work place. Using email as a source of online communication you need to be aware of who you are writing the email to and what language you might use. A professional email has a lay out opposite to day to day convocation than online chat. It does not abbreviate, use emojis and/or incorporate numbers into words such as g2g (got to go) or gr8 (great). This may cause implications of the way you are viewed in the real-life circumstances. It is important to know the balance between online and offline and also the difference between professional and casual.