CIS 2 Individual Project – Group 1

Zien Zeng

1. Introductions

The first source is: 

https://www.volunteermatch.org/search 

I find VolunteerMatch.org to be an excellent resource because it allows me to choose from a diverse array of opportunities that align with my interests and skills. I appreciate how it enables me to search based on my location or even participate remotely, offering flexibility. Additionally, the comprehensive descriptions help me make informed decisions about where I can contribute best. Trusting the platform’s credibility, I also see it as a valuable way to network and develop new skills, enhancing my personal and professional growth.

 

The second source is: 

https://www.forbes.com/sites/petersuciu/2021/08/02/spotting-misinformation-on-social-media-is-increasingly-challenging/?sh=28b9faaa2771 

 

After reading this Forbes article, I believe it effectively communicates the growing difficulty in identifying misinformation on social media. It stresses to me the fact that even the most savvy users can fall prey to misleading content due to increasingly sophisticated tactics. The piece suggests that we should remain vigilant and take steps to validate information before accepting it as true. It has also reinforced my understanding of the crucial role social media platforms and AI technologies need to play in combating this issue. Overall, the article has made me even more conscious of the role each of us play in stopping the spread of misinformation online.

 

Upon reflecting on the two sources, I’ve found the Forbes article to be more relevant and impactful for our current course, which is introductions of the Internet. This piece, with its focus on discerning fake news in today’s complex digital landscape, aligns more closely with our studies. Ultimately, understanding and identifying misinformation online is a critical skill that resonates with our course content and learning objectives.

2. Privacy and Freedom of Speech

The first source is: 

https://harappa.education/harappa-diaries/digital-citizenship/#:~:text=Digital%20citizenship%20can%20be%20defined%20as%20the%20successful,as%20part%20of%20a%20process%20of%20lifelong%20learning

 

Upon reading the Harappa Education article, I have gained an enriched understanding of digital citizenship, especially regarding privacy. I appreciate how it underscores the necessity of exercising personal responsibility while online to protect my private information. I resonate with the emphasis it places on educating oneself about online privacy, seeing it as a critical part of lifelong learning. It’s also clear to me now that my online behaviors can significantly impact my privacy, as well as others’. Overall, the article reaffirms my belief that privacy is a key aspect of being a responsible and ethical digital citizen.

 

The second source is:

https://www.aclu.org/documents/privacy-america-computers-phones-privacy 

 

​​After going through the ACLU document on “Privacy in America: Computers, Phones & Privacy,” I found it particularly enlightening with regard to our discussions on privacy. The content resonates with my concern over the extent to which our personal information, especially on computers and phones, is protected. It gives me a deeper understanding of how the laws and regulations we have may not fully cover the breadth of modern technology, thus presenting potential privacy threats. I also find it alarming that our personal communications can be so easily accessed without our knowledge. This highlights to me the urgent need for ongoing discourse, legislation updates, and personal responsibility to protect our privacy in this digital era.

 

After considering both resources, I find myself drawn more towards the Harappa Education article on digital citizenship. Although the ACLU document provides crucial insights into privacy concerns with modern technology, the first source resonates more with me because of its focus on personal responsibility while using the internet. It underlines the idea that we all play a part in safeguarding our own privacy, which I believe is a vital aspect of navigating today’s digital world. It highlights our role as internet users, emphasizing the need for us to be informed, cautious, and responsible when sharing information online.

3. Intellectual Property

 The first resource is:

https://www.elon.edu/u/news/2022/06/30/elon-university-pew-research-look-ahead-to-the-metaverse-of-2040/ 

The article from Elon University, I recognize how the projection of the metaverse in 2040 brings up critical considerations for intellectual property. The creation of new, immersive digital spaces will inevitably involve novel content, for which intellectual property rights need to be defined and protected. I understand that the metaverse could blur traditional boundaries of intellectual property, making it more challenging to determine ownership and rights. Overall, the exploration of the metaverse by 2040 underscores for me the increasing complexity and importance of intellectual property issues in digital spaces.

The second resource is:

https://universaldesign.org/definition 

I perceive that it holds significant implications for intellectual property. The principles of Universal Design, such as simplicity, flexibility, and intuitiveness, influence how designs are created and patented, which directly ties to intellectual property. Moreover, if a design is universally accessible, its widespread use may create additional considerations for intellectual property protection and enforcement. I believe that Universal Design is important because it emphasizes inclusivity and accessibility for all users, which in turn fosters innovation, widens the audience for products and services, and may even inspire new intellectual property creation.

I find myself more inclined towards the Universal Design website. While the Elon University article on the metaverse presents fascinating intellectual property implications for the future, the Universal Design concept resonates more deeply with me. I appreciate the universal inclusivity it promotes, emphasizing that products should be usable by all, regardless of ability or circumstance. It strikes me how prevalent this concept is in everyday items like cars and glasses. The understanding that we engage with universal design principles daily underscores for me its significance and relevance in our lives.

4. Crime

The first resource is:

https://cybersecurityventures.com/hackerpocalypse-cybercrime-report-2016/ 

This report emphasizes the urgency of heightened cybersecurity measures and the importance of understanding how online platforms can be exploited for malicious activities. It’s clear to me now that the internet, while bringing countless benefits, also opens up opportunities for criminals, underlining the need for constant vigilance, education, and advanced security measures.

The second resource is:

https://www.allthingssecured.com/identity-protection/what-to-do-when-youve-been-hacked-step-by-step-guide/ 

The steps it outlines underscore for me the realities of dealing with a cyberattack, affirming the importance of proactivity in protecting our digital identities. I also recognize that this guide demonstrates the need to stay informed about evolving cyber threats and how to respond to them, further highlighting the prevalence and seriousness of internet crime.

After reflecting on the two resources, I favor the article from All Things Secured. While the Hackerpocalypse report provides a crucial overview of internet crime, the second article stands out to me due to its practical advice on handling a cyberattack, a topic of great relevance in our digital age. Its detailed, step-by-step approach to protect our digital assets resonates with me strongly, and I find it to be one of the most comprehensive resources I’ve encountered in this class regarding the prevention and response to internet crime.

5. Employment, Education and Entertainment

The first resource is:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=G8csJtDwjzk 

 The video emphasizes how the internet, particularly platforms like YouTube, have become integral to the college experience. It highlights how digital platforms can provide diverse learning mediums, catering to students of all ages and backgrounds. The internet has also facilitated the creation of programs like Study Hall, a partnership between Crash Course and Arizona State University, which offers online guides and courses to help students navigate college life. Furthermore, the internet has made it possible for students to earn college credit remotely, making education more accessible. Lastly, the internet has enabled the sharing of personal experiences and advice, like those from the host, Dr. Erica Brazovsky, providing students with relatable insights and guidance.

The second resource is:

https://us.humankinetics.com/blogs/excerpt/impacts-of-technology-in-outdoor-recreation-and-adventure 

The webpage from Human Kinetics discusses the profound impact of technology on outdoor recreation and adventure. It highlights how advancements such as GPS devices, digital cameras, and smartphones have revolutionized the way we engage with outdoor activities. These tools not only enhance safety and accessibility but also allow us to capture and share our experiences, turning outdoor adventures into a form of entertainment. The ability to document and share these experiences on social media platforms has added a new dimension to outdoor recreation, making it a more interactive and socially engaging form of entertainment.

Comparing the two resources, I find the first one about online college more appealing. It’s fascinating to see how the internet has transformed education, making it possible to pursue a college degree remotely. This was unimaginable in the past, highlighting the profound impact of technology on our lives.

6. Midterm – Grand Challenges

The first resource is:

https://thesyndromemag.com/10-high-tech-devices-women-really-want/?gclid=CjwKCAjw67ajBhAVEiwA2g_jEDB8bdrE0lbpvEWaR0YAMxScddIWo5oBkM0Z5vxzGF0AkR3_UZFWeBoC8X4QAvD_BwE 

 The article on The Syndrome Mag titled “10 High-Tech Devices Women Really Want” discusses a variety of innovative tech gadgets that are particularly appealing to women. The list includes devices such as smart jewelry that can send distress signals, high-tech skincare tools, and smart home devices that make daily tasks more convenient. It also mentions fitness trackers and wearable breast pumps that offer a blend of technology and health. The importance of this article lies in its focus on how technology can cater to women’s specific needs and preferences, highlighting the potential for tech to improve various aspects of daily life, from personal safety to health and convenience.

The second resource is:

https://www.technologyreview.com/2021/03/03/1020247/artificial-intelligence-brain-neuroscience-jeff-hawkins/ 

The article on Technology Review titled “How close are we to a complete theory of the brain?” discusses Jeff Hawkins’ perspective on the intersection of artificial intelligence (AI) and neuroscience. Hawkins, a neuroscientist and tech entrepreneur, proposes that understanding how the brain works can lead to advancements in AI. He suggests that the brain’s predictive capabilities are key to developing more sophisticated AI systems. The importance of AI in this context is that it can potentially mimic human cognitive processes, leading to more efficient problem-solving and decision-making capabilities. This article underscores the potential of AI to revolutionize various sectors, from healthcare to technology, once we fully understand and replicate the brain’s complex mechanisms.

Both resources indeed highlight the remarkable strides we’re making in technology to address significant challenges. While the first one showcases how technology can enhance personal convenience and health, the second one delves into the transformative potential of AI. Personally, I find the latter more captivating. The emergence of AI, which was once unimaginable, represents a monumental shift in our lives, with its potential to revolutionize various sectors and fundamentally alter how we interact with the world.

7. Evaluating and Controlling Technology

The first resource is:

https://www.iotforall.com/impact-of-artificial-intelligence-job-losses 

The article discusses the impact of artificial intelligence on job losses, highlighting both the fear and optimism associated with it. The article notes that while automation has historically caused fear of job displacement, each technological shift has eventually led to the creation of more jobs than were eliminated. Also, the jobs replaced by automation tend to be tedious or physically demanding, allowing humans to pursue more meaningful careers. AI and automation also have potential benefits in fields like healthcare and poverty eradication. The relation with evaluating and controlling technology lies in the need to balance the potential benefits of AI and automation with their societal impacts, particularly on employment, and to guide the evolution of these technologies in a way that maximizes their benefits while minimizing potential harm.

The second resource is:

https://www.scientificamerican.com/article/who-is-liable-when-ai-kills1/ 

The article addresses the issue of liability when AI causes harm. Current liability systems, designed for an era when most harm was directly attributable to human actions, are not well-suited for situations where AI causes harm without direct human input. The challenge lies in determining the appropriate liability for all stakeholders in AI, including users and developers, in a way that ensures AI safety and effectiveness without stifling innovation. The article suggests a three-pronged approach involving insurance, specialized courts, and regulatory standards to handle AI liability issues. The connection with evaluating and controlling technology arises in the need to develop a liability system that can handle the unique challenges posed by AI, and in the importance of regulation in mitigating the potential harms of AI while enabling its benefits.

Both articles highlight the complexity of managing AI’s impact on society. I favor the second article’s focus on the ethical issues raised by AI, a critical aspect of any discussion about the future of AI. The questions around liability when AI causes harm underscore the importance of considering the ethical implications of AI in our society. As we move forward, it is crucial to create a framework that balances the benefits of AI with the potential risks, ensuring that AI is developed and used responsibly.

8. Risks, Failures and Responsibilities

The first resource is:

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Talk:Open-source_intelligence 

The Wikipedia talk page for “Open-source intelligence” contains discussions and debates surrounding the concept and practices of collecting information from publicly available sources. Contributors highlight the responsibility involved in handling this data, emphasizing how the technology enables collection, analysis, and sharing of intelligence, and its potential use for social good when used ethically.

The second resource is:

https://usfblogs.usfca.edu/dataethics/2020/01/21/responsible-government/ 

The USF Blog post titled “Responsible Government” discusses the significance of data ethics in governmental contexts. It outlines responsibilities in maintaining data transparency, privacy, and security, while using technology to provide equitable public services. The blog emphasizes the potential of responsible data management to transform governance for the betterment of society.

I find that the USF Blog post on “Responsible Government” aligns more closely with my views. I value its discussion on the role of the government as a standard-bearer for ethical data use. I believe that it’s important for us to have specific rules in place to safeguard our rights, and I see this reflected in the blog’s emphasis on transparency, privacy, and security. In contrast, while I acknowledge the potential of open-source intelligence as discussed in the Wikipedia page, I feel a stronger connection with the USF post’s focus on how a responsible government can use technology to foster a more equitable society.

9. Anytime, Anywhere

The first resource is:

https://www.apple.com/ios/health/ 

 Apple’s Health feature, as presented on their website, is a comprehensive solution for users to manage their health and wellness data directly from their iOS devices. This tool, available anytime and anywhere to iOS users, promotes personal health management, tracking everything from daily physical activity to mindfulness and sleep. It totally connect with topic anytime and anywhere.

The second resource is:

https://www.startus-insights.com/innovators-guide/top-10-food-technology-trends-innovations-in-2021/ 

The StartUs Insights article outlines the top 10 food tech trends and innovations for 2021, focusing on how technology is changing the food industry. Innovations on display include AI-powered meal planning and personalized nutrition apps that enable consumers to access food-related information and services anytime, anywhere, increasing the convenience and personalization of food consumption. Food is something everyone needs to focus on.

Upon comparing the two resources, I am particularly drawn to Apple’s Health feature. Its impact is more immediate and tangible in our day-to-day lives. While understanding the origin and processing of food is important, I find myself more focused on personal health metrics that can be easily tracked and monitored through the Apple Health app, providing real-time insights about my well-being anytime, anywhere.

10. Technology Advances, Social Trends

The first resource is:

https://www.techtarget.com/searchenterpriseai/definition/robot 

 

TechTarget’s page provides a comprehensive definition of a robot, encompassing its origins and varying applications in modern society. It discusses how robots, a key example of technological advancement, have evolved from simple automated machines to complex systems capable of learning from their environments. These advances in robotics are influencing social trends, particularly in how we work, by automating tasks, increasing efficiency, and redefining roles in various industries.

 

The second resource is:

https://www.kbb.com/car-advice/self-driving-cars/ 

 

Kelley Blue Book’s article delves into the topic of self-driving cars, highlighting their operation, benefits, and the technology that enables them. These autonomous vehicles represent a significant leap in transportation technology, with potential to reshape social trends by improving road safety, enhancing mobility for those who cannot drive, and impacting urban planning. They reflect how technological advancements are continuously shaping our daily lives and societal norms.

 

Upon comparing the two resources, I lean more towards the Kelley Blue Book’s exploration of self-driving cars, even though TechTarget offers a broad spectrum of information about robots. I perceive autonomous vehicles as one of the most potent manifestations of robotics in today’s world, exemplifying the height of technology advances. While various forms of robotics influence different facets of life and industries, the immediacy of self-driving cars impacts our daily routines and societal norms. In my perspective, the evolution and prevalence of autonomous driving technology brings us a step closer to a future where technology is seamlessly integrated into our everyday lives.