Information Technology Reference
In-Depth Information
a particular country. Mark Warschauer says the notion of a digital divide is too simplistic
for three reasons. First, people have widely varying access to information technology. Ac-
cess should be seen as a continuum, not a division into “haves” and “have nots.” Second,
simply giving people information technology devices, such as computers, cell phones,
and Internet accounts, does not guarantee they will take full advantage of the opportu-
nities those devices provide. For IT to make a difference, social systems must be taken
into account. According to Warschauer, the use of information technology “is a social
practice, involving access to physical artifacts, content, skills, and social support” [28, p.
46]. Third, it's too simplistic to say that a lack of access causes someone to have lower
socioeconomic status. You could just as easily say that people with lower socioeconomic
status adopt new technologies later. In reality, each factor influences the other.
Frank and Cook invented the term “winner-take-all society” to refer to the way
that information technology, the spread of English, network effects, and other factors
are creating marketplaces where a few top performers gain a disproportionate share of
the rewards. They present evidence that winner-take-all effects harm our economy and
our culture, and they suggest actions that can be taken to reduce the winner-take-all
phenomenon.
Review Questions
1. What are some benefits brought about by automation? What are some harms brought
about by automation?
2. What evidence has been given to show that automation eliminates jobs? What evidence
has been given to show that automation creates more jobs than it destroys?
3. If automation has doubled productivity since World War II, why hasn't the workweek
gotten shorter?
4. How can information technology lead to changes in the structure of an organization?
5. How can telework improve the environment?
6. Why do teleworkers fret about being less visible?
7. Proponents of globalization claim that it helps workers in developing countries. Oppo-
nents of globalization claim the opposite. Summarize the arguments pro and con.
8. How does Norris categorize the digital divide?
9. Why does Warschauer say the notion of the digital divide is too simplistic and perhaps
harmful?
Discussion Questions
10. Do you agree with Voltaire that a lack of work results in boredom and vice?
11. Would you accept a salaried position (paying a certain amount each month) if you knew
it would require you to work at least 50 hours per week in order to complete the required
work?
 
 
 
Search WWH ::




Custom Search