INF506 - Module One thoughts - ethnic technology - the right to choose

The article Ethnic Technology (Kelly, 2009 March 10) raises some interesting points in regards to the take up of new technology.

Individual choice over using a technology is a concept that I would challenge. While it is seemingly possible to choose not to participate in social networking, current work and social pressure and expectations dictate otherwise. While applying for teaching jobs overseas it become necessary to become adept at using Skype as this was the only form of communication that potential employers would use. Without giving in to this necessity it would diminish any opportunities to pursue international teaching work.

In addition to needing social networking skills over a variety of apps in order to attain the job, it is necessary to stay up to date on various applications as part of the function of the work. Some employers question the ability to teachers to facilitate learning using a variety of social network tools. If it was truly up to an individual’s right to opt in or out of using social networking apps they would then be made to forgo the majority of opportunities provided in a professional teaching and learning environment.

Beyond the workplace pressure, social pressure is now forcing people into adopting social networking technology that they would otherwise have avoided. A clear example where there seems to be widespread acceptance and adoption of a technology is Facebook. This is an application that has had widespread adoption within the developed world. It is not rare to hear a discussion at work based on something that was shared using Facebook or Twitter. To be an outsider on this technology then leads to becoming an outsider on many conversations that arise from such online interactions.


Kelly, K. (2009, March 10) Ethnic Technology [Blog Post].
Retrieved from: http://www.kk.org/thetechnium/archives/2009/03/ethnic_technolo.php