In "Automation Makes Ys Dumb", Nicholas Carr argues that automation is de-skilling people rather than strengthen people's skills and creativity. "But our growing reliance on computer automation may be exacting a high price. Worrisome evidence suggests that our own intelligence is withering as we become more dependent on the artificial variety. Rather than lifting us up, smart software seems to be dumbing us down." I totally agree with Carr's point. In such a technology age, technology is taking away people's skills potentially but substantially.
Let's talk about some really simple technological product--calculators. Calculators are so common in Universities that nearly every college student has one in hand. We use calculators to do all the mathematical calculations in class even in exams. Suddenly I found myself even rely on calculators to do very simple math for me. And I become gradually not good at doing all the sums in my head anymore. However, when I was in my country, China for school, I was required to do most of the calculations in my mind or on paper for homework and exams. This is a universal requirement for Chinese student. Only comes to Calculas problems would teachers allow us to use calculators for counting. So at that time, I was able to do all the simple math for most of my purchases. But now, when I'm ready to pay for my stuffs on the counter, I always wait till the cashier counts the total amount on his/her POS machine. In restaurants, I always use my smartphone app to count the tips for waiters/waitresses. Apparently, I become lazier and dumber compared to "me" in the past.
Smart technology definitely brings people much convenience but it also takes away our
inner enthusiasm and learning initiative. People today are way over dependent on smart technology because we've tasted the sweetness of automation. However, the goal of automation is originally to boost the work efficiency of work like the boring and assembly work on production line. But nowadays, as Carr said, "The goal of modern software, by contrast, is to ease our way through challenges" that usually can up-skill us. Therefore, I think sometimes we should leave the pleasure of convenience behind, and go for the challenges. I believe the sense of accomplishment by overcoming challenges will taster much better!
Hi Dawn,
ReplyDeleteGreat insight. I came to a very similar conclusion through an analysis of the article. Technology is essentially dumbing us down. That is a great point about calculators. I too remember that through out elementary school that I couldn't use a calculator and I became pretty proficient at mental math. However, since then I have been more dependent on my smartphone and calculators to calculate things for me. In the end, I agree with you that we should stop taking the simple and convenient route since it will be more rewarding to take the road less traveled.
I really like how you mentioned "calculators" as an example. I also noticed me always using calculators even for simple maths. Because of this, I feel like I don't use my head to calculate anymore when there is one. Even we are using laptops everyday to do our school works, when we used to turn everything in paper. I also like to write notes with my laptops, thus, I haven't using pens for a while. I agree with you saying we should go for challenges. Great job!
ReplyDeleteHi Dawn,
ReplyDeleteI find your insight about China schooling fascinating. I also cannot help but agree with your point that calculators make math easier for everyone, and makes people not nearly as good at mental math. However, I do think calculators have helped people who are generally poor at math. Maybe someone with dyslexia or something similar. A calculator can really benefit them. I guess technology always has its trade-offs and, as a society, we need to figure out how to handle the negative effects.
Raymond Hess-Comm343