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Computers and Technology as Distractions . Samuel Teich Samuel Vickers. The Problem. Increasingly mobile technology has created a dangerous distraction in our society This creates a tension between physical presence and virtual presence with potentially harmful results . Current State.
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Computers and Technologyas Distractions Samuel Teich Samuel Vickers
The Problem • Increasingly mobile technology has created a dangerous distraction in our society • This creates a tension between physical presence and virtual presence with potentially harmful results
Current State • Due to improved technology, computers are becoming more prevalent in our daily routine. • Some states have enacted legislation to control use of devices in some circumstances.
Future Concerns • Omnipresent computing • New means of computing will only increase level of distraction
Psychological View • The human brain cannot multitask effectively • “Cognitive Bottleneck Theory”
Ethical Analysis Kantian and Utilitarian evaluation of: • The use of a device • Introduction of a new device in to society
Potential Solutions • Public Education of Risks • Improved Technology • Legislation
Conclusion • Cell phones pose most visible predicament • All entities involved have some ethical duty • Cultural shift as a possible solution
Bibliography • “Cell Phone and Texting Laws” Governors Highway Safety Association, November 2011 • “Intelligence, working memory, and multitasking performance” Roberto Colom. Universidad Autonoma de Madrid. 16 September 2010. Madrid, Spain • “The Quest for a Unified Theory of Multitasking. The Multitasking Mind” Salvucci, Taatgen. Oxford University Press. 2011 • “Distraction and pedestrian safety: How talking on the phone, texting, and listening to music impact crossing the street” David C. Schwebel. University of Alabama. July 2011 • “Human Multitasking” Wikipedia Article. Last modified November 13, 2011 • “Task Switching” Wikipedia Article. Last modified October 12, 2011 • “Executive functions” Wikipedia Article. Last modified November 16 2011
Bibliography (cont.) • “Examining the impact of off-task multi-tasking with technology on real-time classroom learning” Eileen Wood. Wilfrid Laurier University. August 2011 • “Distracted walking: Cell Phones increase injury risk for college pedestrians” DespinaStavrinos. University of Alabama. March 2011 • “Statistics and Facts About Distracted Driving” www.distraction.gov US Department of Transportation