Computer Literacy
On Monday night we were reading the district directory and noted that all the e-mail addresses were underlined, making them difficult to read. One person there present (a rare person who occurs both in the Scouting and Political areas of this blog) was baffled as to why they didn't just press the appropriate keys and remove the hyperlinks. Another noted that "not everyone is computer literate".
This set me thinking. A recent proposal to SAGGA was worded on the assumption that in 2006 it is normal to have at least a basic ability in using a computer. From that perspective should we stop talking about people who are "not computer literate" and start talking about "computer illiteracy".
As human beings we often like to protect ourselves in a bubble, and as I've observed the computer illiterate often like to look on those of us who "get" technology as strange and unusual. But is this fair, is it right? Is it mean to look on the world as it is, rather than in terms of others protective bubble?
Able people have feelings too, and being labeled as a "geek" and a "weirdo" for being able to understand something 90% of the population can, sometimes hurts.
posted by Simon @ 21:53:00
3 comments
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3 Comments:
Don't worry, Si, they're just envious.
(assuming the above comment is Dr T) ... speaks a geek!
Alas I guide in a district where by using a Guiding Message board is seen as whay out there in the realms of technology (it's only a Yahoo group!) and that from some parties I'm just far too keen and in their view 'a blue knicker guider'. Now nothing can be further from the truth, despite me trying to explain to them the definition of a blue knicker Guider quite a few times (they've obviously heard the term and want to use it ... alas in the wrong context) ... and I know things they don't 'cos I talk to Guiders outside district/ county! (that'd be SAGGA & SSAGO).
Fortunately this is a minority and so when I take the reins as DC we hopefuly will move towards technology a bit (like e-mailed minutes!) for those willing to take it (and guidance will be given for those who need support but want to try!).
Flippin heck Si, going on about people who behave as if geeks were less worthwhile that others, you're obsessed with Leah Darbyshire!
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