Chapter 11 Computers And Society Home, Work, And Ethical Iss

Chapter 11 Computers and Society: Home, Work, and Ethical Issues

Chapter 11 Objectives Understand that computers have made a tremendous difference in daily living Explain how computers are used at home Describe how computers change the way society interacts with disciplines such as education, entertainment, finance, government, health care, science, publishing, and travel Recognize the issues associated with the digital divide Understand how e-commerce affects the way people conduct business Identify ways virtual reality, intelligent agents, and robots are being used in daily life Learn how to prevent health-related disorders and injuries due to computer use Understand how to design a workspace ergonomically Recognize symptoms of computer addiction Explain green computing Understand ethical issues surrounding computer use p.11.2 Next

Living with Computers

Where are computers found?

Computers are everywhere

At home

At work

At school

p.11.2 Fig. 11-1 Next

How has society benefited from computers?

One-third of the United States’ economic growth has been attributed to digital technologies

Business and home users can make well-informed decisions because they have instant access to information from anywhere in the world

Students have more tools to assist them in the learning process

Homes have many more conveniences

p.11.2 Next

How are computers used at home?

The computer has become a basic necessity in many homes

p.11.3Fig. 11-2 budgeting, personal financial management, and home business management Next Web access personal and business communications research and education entertainment

What is the main reason computers have infiltrated homes?

People want access to the Web

p.11. 4 Download and watch movies Bank and invest Communicate with others around the world Next Shop for goods and services Download and listen to music Access sources of entertainment and leisure Take a course or access other educational material Access a wealth of information, news , research, and educational material

How have computers changed home communications?

Communications are not limited to text

You can transmit voice, sounds, video, and graphics

p.11.4 Fig. 11-3 Next

What is the purpose of videoconferencing software?

You can have live conversations with others

p.11.4 Fig. 11-4 Click to view video Next

iving with Computers

What are ways computers meet the varying needs of consumers?

A variety of computers available

desktop

notebook

handheld

internet appliances

Available in a variety of stylish colors and sleek designs

p.11.4 Fig. 11-5 Next

What is an Internet appliance?

Computer with limited functionality

Main purpose is to connect to the Internet from home

Ideal for the family that uses the computer only for Web access

p.11.5 Fig. 11-6 Next

Technology Trailblazers

Steve Wozniak

Named to the Inventors Hall of Fame in Akron, Ohio for his $666 Apple II

Combined the central processing unit, keyboard, and disk drive into one unit

Developed the Apple I with Steve Jobs in 1976

Serves as an advisor to Apple

p.11. 6 Click to view Web Link then click Steve Wozniak Next

What is education and how are computers used in education?

The process of developing knowledge through instruction

Many schools and businesses can afford to equip labs and classrooms with computers

p.11. 6Fig. 11-7 Next

What is computer-based training (CBT)?

Helps students learn by using computers and completing exercises with instructional software

Also called computer-aided instruction (CAI)

p.11.6 Fig. 11-8 Next

What is Web-based training (WBT)?

A type of CBT that uses Internet technology

Typically consists of self-directed, self-paced instruction on a topic

p.11.6 Fig. 11-9 Next

What are the advantages of CBT and WBT over traditional training?

Typically consist of self-directed, self-paced instruction on a topic

Students become actively involved in the learning process instead of passive recipients of information

p.11.7 Reduced training costs Next Simulations Computer-based models of real-life situations Unique instructional experience Unique content Self-paced study

What is distance learning (DL)?

The delivery of education at one location while the learning takes place at other locations

Provides many time, distance, and place advantages for students

Also called distance education (DE) or online learning

p.11. 8 Click to view video Next Enables students to attend class from anywhere in the world and at times that fit their schedules

How might a company use distance learning?

A company may use the Internet and its own network to ensure that it can train personnel, regardless of where they are working

p.11.8 Fig. 11-10 ATM International Oil Association ATM Employee Working at Home telephone line Employee Working Overseas Employee Working from Ship ATM Global Oil Learning Center ATM Company Headquarters Next

What is a use for distance learning?

More than 70 percent of colleges and universities offer some form of distance learning

A few even offer entire degrees online

p.11.8 Fig. 11-11 Next

What is edutainment?

A type of educational software that combines education with entertainment

Teaches children in a fun and exciting way

Provides entertainment for computer users of all ages

p.11.8 Fig. 11-12 Next

Company on the Cutting Edge

WebCT ™

Tool helps teachers develop sophisticated Internet learning environments for their classes

Features educational and administrative tools

Developed by Murray Goldberg for his own use during his first year teaching in the computer science department at University of British Columbia

p.11.9 Click to view Web Link then click WebCT Next

What is the digital divide?

The idea that you can separate people of the world into two distinct groups

Those who have access to technology with the ability to use it

Those who do not have access to technology or are without the ability to use it

p.11.9 Next

What are effects of the digital divide?

Separates the haves from the have nots

p.11.10 Fig. 11-13 Next

What is being done about the digital divide?

Several programs have been launched to narrow the gap in the digital divide

Many of the programs focus on computers in schools

p.11.10 Fig. 11-14 Next

What programs are designed to help bridge the digital divide?

p.11.10 Next Teach America! program Provides online computer training to 75,000 teachers Launched by Gateway PowerUp A nationwide industry partnership Goal is to place technology in schools and community centers Anytime Anywhere Learning program Provides teachers and students with notebook computers equipped with the Microsoft Office suite and the capability to access the Internet Launched by Microsoft and Toshiba

How can computers help those with disabilities?

Blind or visually impaired people can have Web pages read out loud

Web pages can display captions for deaf and hard-of-hearing individuals

Those with significant disabilities can control the computer with eye movements and brain waves

p.11.10 Next

How are computers used for entertainment?

Provides a fulfilling experience in many areas of entertainment

games

fine art

music

movies

photos

p.11. 11 Fig. 11-15 Next

What music and video options are available?

Play CDs or DVDs

Online radio

Purchase on Web and download to hard disk

Create your own

p.11.12 Fig. 11-16 Next

What is a digital camera?

Allows you to take pictures and store images digitally

Images can be shared by posting to a Web site or e-mailing

Special effects can be added to images

You can print multiple copies of an image

p.11.12 Next

What is electronic commerce?

A financial business transaction that occurs over an electronic network such as the Internet

Also known as e-commerce

p.11.13 Fig. 11-17 Next

Who can participate in e-commerce?

Anyone with access to a computer, an Internet connection, and a means to pay for purchased goods or services

p.11.13 Fig. 11-17 Next

What is an electronic storefront?

An online business with descriptions, graphics, and a shopping cart that allows you to collect purchases

p.11.14 Fig. 11-18a Next

What is an online auction?

An online site where you bid on an item and the highest bidder purchases the item

p.11.14 Fig. 11-18b Click to view Web Link then click Bluetooth™ Next

How are computers used to manage finances?

Personal finance software allows you to balance your checkbook, pay bills, track personal income and expenses, track investments, and evaluate financial plans

p.11.14 Fig. 11-19 Next

What is online banking?

You transfer money electronically from your account into a payee’s account or download monthly transactions from the Web into your computer

Your account information is stored on the bank's computer

p.11.14 Fig. 11-20 Next

What is online stock trading?

You can buy and sell stocks online without using a broker

p.11.16 Fig. 11-21 Next

How are computers used by the government?

Government Web sites provide citizens with up-to-date information

p.11.16 Fig. 11-22 Next

How do government employees use computers as part of their daily routine?

North American 911 call centers use computers to dispatch emergency calls

p.11.18 Fig. 11-23a Next

How do government employees use computers as part of their daily routine?

Law enforcement officers have online access to the FBI’s National Crime Information Center (NCIC) through police cars equipped with computers and fingerprint scanners

p.11.18 Fig. 11-23b Next

What is another use of computers in government?

Web sites allow the public to complete transactions with the government online

file taxes

apply for permits and licenses

pay parking tickets

p.11.18 Fig. 11-24 Next

How are computers used in health care?

Nearly every aspect of the medical field uses computers

maintain records

monitor patient’s vital signs

assist in research and diagnosis

file insurance claims

conduct medical tests

communicate with patients

surgically implant computerized devices

computer-controlled devices assist in operations

p.11.19 Fig. 11-25 Next

What is telemedicine?

Affords health-care professionals and consumers access to medical care through computers with videoconferencing capabilities

p.11.19 Fig. 11-26 Click to view Web Link then click Telemedicine Next

What is computer-aided surgery (CAS)?

Involves using computer simulations to assist in learning surgical techniques

Allows professionals to practice procedures before actually performing them on human patients

p.11.20 Next Computer-aided learning (CAL) Used by other medical professionals, such as physicians and dentists, during training

How can the computer and the Web aid patients?

Provide up-to-date medical, fitness, nutrition, or exercise information

Access databases of doctors and dentists

Talk to others diagnosed with similar conditions using chat rooms

Order prescriptions online

p.11.20 Fig. 11-27 Next

How can a computer aid in fitness?

Exercise equipment often has a computer built into it to track your progress

Monitors physical conditions such as heart rate and pulse

p.11.21 Fig. 11-28 Next

How do scientists use computers?

All branches use computers to assist them with collecting, analyzing, and modeling data

Scientists use the Internet to communicate with colleagues around the world

p.11.21 Fig. 11-29 Next

What is a scientific breakthrough related to computers?

Computer chips imitate the functions of parts of the body

A cochlear implant allows a deaf person to talk and listen

p.11.22 Fig. 11-30 Implant delivers electrical energy to electrodes in cochlea 4 Coil carries signals to the implant 3 Microphone picks up sound and carries it to a computer 1 Computer digitizes sound 2 Next Electrodes stimulate auditory nerve fibers 5 Auditory nerve sends sound information to brain 6

What is publishing?

The process of making a work available to the public

The content of many magazines and newspapers is available online

p.11.23 Fig. 11-31 Next

What is an electronic book (e-book)?

Some Web sites allow you to download an entire book to your computer

Cost is about the same or less than the cost of purchasing the print version

p.11.22 Fig. 11-32 Click to view Web Link then click E-Books Next

Company on the Cutting Edge

Britannica.com

The parent company was founded in 1768 with the goal of capturing the major developments occurring in the arts and sciences

In 1974, the 15 th edition was edited and published completely in-house using computers

Created the fist CD-ROM multimedia encyclopedia in 1989

Put the entire print version on the Internet in 1993

p.11. 23 Click to view Web Link then click Britannica Next

What are Web bar codes?

Another recent development that link printed media to the Web

Media display these bar codes throughout the printed pages

Using a handheld scanner connected to your computer, you scan the bar code to display a related Web page on the computer screen

p.11. 24 Next

What is a global positioning system (GPS)?

An onboard navigation facility included in many vehicles manufactured today

Receiver reports your car’s location via satellites

p.11.24 Fig. 11-33 Next

What are features of GPS?

p.11. 24 Make reservations Track stolen vehicle Honk horn Next Provide directions Automatically call for help in emergency Provide emergency services when a button is pressed Dispatch roadside assistance Unlock door Perform remote diagnostics if warning light on dashboard appears

What online services are available for car buyers?

You can shop online for a car

Sites aid in locating and delivering cars

Offer services such as loans, leases, insurance, and warranties

Many allow you to sell a used car

p.11.25 Fig. 11-34 Next

What online services are available for travelers?

Print directions and a map from the Web

Make reservations for cars, hotels, or flights

p.11.25 Fig. 11-35 Next

What is telecommuting?

A work arrangement in which employees work away from a company's standard workplace

Often communicate with the office using some communications technology

More than 20 million workers telecommute today

p.11.26 Fig. 11-36 Click to view Web Link then click Telecommuting Next

What are reasons to telecommute?

Reduce time and expense spent in traveling to the office

Eliminate travel during unsafe weather conditions

Allow a flexible work schedule

Provide a convenient, comfortable work environment

Advantages

Higher job satisfaction rates

More productive workers

Reduction in employer overhead

Healthy for the environment

p.11. 26 Fig. 11-36 Next

Emerging Technologies

What is virtual reality (VR)?

The use of computers to simulate a real or imagined environment that appears as a three-dimensional (3-D) space

You can explore and manipulate images interactively

Used for games, training, engineering, e-commerce, science, and medicine

p.11.27 Fig. 11-37 Click to view Web Link then click Virtual Reality Next

What is a VR world?

An entire 3-D site that contains infinite space and depth

Many provide 360-degree tours of locations such as automobiles, buildings, colleges, sites of interest, and cites

p.11.27 Fig. 11-37 Next

How is the experience of a simulated environment sometimes enhanced?

Software requires you to wear specialized headgear, body suits, and gloves

The headgear displays the artificial environment in front of both of your eyes

p.11.28 Fig. 11-38 Next

What is artificial intelligence?

The application of human intelligence to computers

Can sense your actions and, based on logical assumptions and prior experience, take the appropriate action to complete a task

p.11. 28 Next smart software Software with built-in intelligence

What is an intelligent agent?

Any software program that independently asks questions, pays attention to work patterns, and carries out tasks on behalf of a user

p.11.29 Fig. 11-39 Click to view Web Link then click Intelligent Agents Next Intelligent agent offers a suggestion

What is a network agent?

A sophisticated type of intelligent agent that performs tasks on remote computers before bringing the results back to the user

Sometimes called a bot

Often used when you search the Web or other networks for information

p.11. 29 Next

What is a robot?

A computer-controlled device that can move and react to feedback from the outside world

p.11.30 Fig. 11-40 Click to view Web Link then click Robotics Next

A Healthy Work Environment

What are areas of concern for a healthy work environment?

Long time computer use can lead to health complications

p.11.30 Green computing Ergonomics and workplace design Next Computer addiction Job-related injuries and illnesses

What is a musculoskeletal disorder (MSD)?

An injury or disorder of the muscles, nerves, tendons, ligaments, and joints

Also called repetitive stress injury (RSI)

Account for one-third of all job-related injuries and illnesses

Long-term computer work can lead to tendonitis and carpal tunnel syndrome

Tendonitis Inflammation of a tendon due to some repeated motion or stress on that tendon p.11. 30 Carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS) Inflammation of the nerve that connects your forearm to the palm of your wrist Next

What precautions can reduce the chance of developing tendonitis or carpal tunnel syndrome?

Take frequent breaks during the computer session

Use a wrist rest

Exercise your hands and arms

Minimize the number of times you switch between the mouse and the keyboard

p.11.31 Fig. 11-41 Hand Exercises Next

What are conditions associated with computer vision syndrome (CVS)?

Sore, tired, burning, itching, or dry eyes

Blurred or double vision

Distance vision blurred after prolonged staring at monitor

Headache or sore neck

Difficulty shifting focus between monitor and documents

Difficulty focusing on the screen image

Color fringes or after-images when you look away from the monitor

Increased sensitivity to light

p.11. 31 Next

How can you ease eyestrain when working at the computer?

p.11.31 Fig. 11-42 Next

What is ergonomics?

An applied science devoted to incorporate comfort, efficiency, and safety into the design of items in the workplace

Using the correct type and configuration of chair, keyboard, monitor, and work surface will help you work comfortably and protect your health

p.11. 32 Fig. 11-43 Click to view video Click to view Web Link then click Ergonomics 1. Viewing distance: 18 to 28 inches 1 2. Viewing angle: 20 ° to center of screen 2 3. Arms: elbows at 90 ° and arms and hands parallel to floor 3 4. Keyboard height: 23 to 28 inches depending on height of user 4 5. Adjustable backrest 5 6. Adjustable seat 6 7. Adjustable height chair with 5 legs for stability 7 8. Feet flat on floor 8 Next

What are some equipment features that address ergonomic issues?

p.11. 32 Next Keyboards Built-in wrist rests Ergonomic design specifically to prevent RSI Monitors Tilt-and-swivel base Controls to adjust the brightness, contrast, positioning, height, and width of images MPR II standard defines acceptable levels of radiation

What is computer addiction?

Occurs when the computer consumes someone’s entire social life

Internet addiction disorder (IAD) is an addiction to the Internet

Treatable through therapy and support groups

p.11. 32 Next

Symptoms

Craves computer time

Overjoyed when at the computer

Unable to stop computer activity

Irritable when not at the computer

Neglects family and friends

Problems at work or school

What is green computing?

Involves reducing the electricity and environmental wastes while using a computer

Computers use and often waste, resources such as electricity and paper

p.11. 33 Click to view Web Link then click Green Computing ENERGY STAR program Developed by the United States Department of Energy (DOE) and the United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Encourages manufacturers to create energy–efficient devices that require little power when they are not in use Next

What are some green computing suggestions?

p.11.33 Fig. 11-44 Next

Ethics and Society

What are computer ethics?

The moral guidelines that govern the use of computers and information systems

Six areas of concern

p.11.34 Next Software theft (piracy) Information accuracy Codes of conduct Unauthorized use of computer systems Information privacy Intellectual property rights

Ethics and Society

What do you think about ethical issues?

p.11.34 Fig. 11-45 Next

Ethics and Society

Why is information accuracy important?

Inaccurate input can result in erroneous information and incorrect decisions based on that information

You should evaluate the value of a Web page before relying on its content

p.11.34 Fig. 11-46 Next

Ethics and Society

What are the ethics of using computers to alter output?

Using graphics equipment and software, you can alter images

Alteration could lead to deliberately misleading photographs

p.11.36 Fig. 11-47 Next

Ethics and Society

What are intellectual property rights?

Intellectual property (IP) refers to work created by inventors, authors, and artists

Intellectual property rights are the rights to which creators are entitled for their inventions, writings, and works of art

Technology Trailblazer

Mitch Kapor

Founded Lotus Development Company and created Lotus 1-2-3

Co-founded the Electronic Frontier Foundation, a not-for-profit organization dedicated to protecting online privacy, free expression, and access to public resources

p.11.35 Click to view Web Link then click Mitch Kapor Next

Ethics and Society