Truth be told, I was never a big fan
of technology. I would define myself as a 'techno-noob'- someone who is out of
touch with technology. However, undeniably enough, developments in technology
resulted in the vast improvements in global standard of living and quality of
life. I am always amazed by the role and influence of technology in the advancement
of society into the near future.
When I found out that I was assigned
"Technology & World Change"
this semester, I was stumped. "This would be interesting," I
thought to myself, while my interest piqued as I speculate the different issues
covered.
Thinking back,the first lesson was
definitely an interactive and fascinating one. I was quite taken aback when
prof told the class to do a self-introduction, which was the first for me. I
personally belief this was an effective method in breaking the ice, allowing
the class to get to know one another while understanding the different
perceptions related to this mod. Also, I was able to detect prof's teaching
style as he lightened up the atmosphere with his humor and jests. I, then,
heaved a sigh of relief.
As the lesson went on, prof elaborated
on the different topics covered then proceeded to discuss the different
distribution of development worldwide. He showed the class a video, tittled:
Shift Happens- which opened the class to discussion. After watching the video,
I was highly fascinated by the ever changing state of our civilisation. Funnily
enough, I'm sure the information provided by the video would be considered
outdated by now. At the same time, I find it rather mind-boggling how mankind
are capable of reaching such high levels of development within a limited time
frame. It's as if technology promotes the development and advancement of
civilisation, as mankind challenges themselves, stretching the different
possibilities.
Prof then showed the class another
video, which resulted in an in-depth discussion- tittled: Guns, Germs, Steel.
The tittle of the video itself represent the different essential elements
involved in the disparity of global development with regards to various
aspects, including economic and political sectors. I personally believed these
elements played an influential role in the past where globalisation was nearly non-existent.
“Guns” used to assert military dominance and power. “Germs”, to eradicate the
most important ingredient in the advancement of a society: mankind. And lastly “Steel”
an important element, in the production of manufacturing industry. However, the
question at hand would be: Do these elements still play an essential role in
the developments of a country in this modern time?
As such, I would say the first lesson
itself stretched my mind and provoked my thought process- as I jump into the
issues discussed in class. Hence I grade this class 8/10
