Digital Technology Culture
Digital Technology Culture can be defined as the values, beliefs, behaviors and technology that shape the way people work and interact in a digital society.
The widespread adaption and integration of digital technologies into various aspects of society has changed the way individuals, communities, organizations, and institutions interact. The Digital culture shaped by digital technologies such as the internet, computers, mobile devices, and digital platforms has also raised issues in terms of security, privacy and cyber-crime.
Digital culture is characterized by:
- Digital Connectivity: Emphasizing the importance of being constantly connected and engaging in online interactions through various digital platforms and devices.
- Information Access and Sharing: Prioritizing the free flow and sharing of information, knowledge, and content facilitated by digital technologies.
- Technological Innovation: Encouraging continuous adaptation and innovation in response to evolving digital tools, platforms, and solutions.
- Virtual Communities and Identities: Fostering the creation of online communities, networks, and identities that transcend geographical boundaries.
- Digital Literacy and Skills: Recognizing the importance of acquiring and mastering digital skills and literacy to effectively navigate, utilize, and critically evaluate digital technologies.
- Privacy and Security Concerns: Addressing the challenges and implications related to digital privacy, data protection, cybersecurity, and ethical considerations in the digital realm.
- Digital Citizenship: Promoting responsible, ethical, and inclusive participation in digital spaces, emphasizing rights, responsibilities, and shared values.
The Internet
Definition: A global network of interconnected computers facilitating communication, information sharing, and online activities.
Impact: Enabled real-time global communication, access to vast information resources, and transformed various industries.
Cultural Significance: Fostered a culture of connectivity, digital collaboration, and online communities.
Example: Social media platforms like Facebook, Twitter, WhatsApp, TikTok and Instagram connecting billions worldwide.
Computer Crime / Cyber Crime
Definition: Illegal activities conducted using computers or targeting computer systems for malicious purposes. Cyber crime refers to crimes committed over the Internet.
Types: Cyberbullying, hacking, identity theft, phishing, ransomware attacks, and online fraud.
Impact: Compromised personal and organizational data, financial losses, and privacy infringements.
Cultural Significance: Highlighted the importance of cybersecurity, digital ethics, and online safety.
Example: Major data breaches at companies like Yahoo compromising millions of user data. The Gambia Central Bank hacking scandal in November 2022.
e-Business
Definition: Conducting business activities online, including buying, selling, marketing, and customer service.
Impact: Expanded market reach, enabled 24/7 operations, and facilitated personalized customer interactions.
Cultural Significance: Shifted business paradigms towards digital platforms, ecommerce, and digital entrepreneurship.
Example: Amazon and Ali Baba revolutionizing retail with its e-commerce platform and diverse product offerings.
e-Health
Definition: Utilizing digital technologies to deliver healthcare services, information, and education.
WHO defines eHealth as the cost-effective and secure use of information and communications technologies in support of health and health-related fields, including health-care services, health surveillance, health literature, and health education, knowledge and research.
Impact: Improved healthcare accessibility, remote patient monitoring, telemedicine consultations, and personalized treatments.
Cultural Significance: Advanced healthcare delivery, patient empowerment, and health awareness through digital platforms.
Example: Telehealth services offering virtual doctor consultations, especially during the COVID19 pandemic. Gambia’s National Health Insurance Scheme (NHIS) is also an example.
Definition: Electronic mail system allowing users to send, receive, and manage messages over the internet.
Impact: Facilitated instant communication, efficient information exchange, and streamlined business communications.
Cultural Significance: Became a foundational tool for personal, professional, and organizational communication.
Example: Gmail, Outlook, and Yahoo Mail are popular email service providers used globally.
Computer Based Training (CBT) / e-Learning
Definition: Educational or training programs delivered via computer platforms and software.
Impact: Enabled flexible learning, self-paced instruction, interactive engagement, and remote training or online exam opportunities. e-Learning being more flexible enables learners to learn anywhere at any time.
Cultural Significance: Transformed traditional learning methods, skill development, and continuous professional education. E-Learning enables students to have their degrees or masters at the comfort of their home without traveling.
Example: Online courses on platforms like Coursera, Udemy, W3Schools and Khan Academy offering diverse learning content. Digital blogs like Faal ICT Academy also provides blog posts, quizzes and other relevant learning content.
Computer Assisted Learning (CAL)
Definition: Learning environments leveraging computer technology to enhance traditional teaching methods.
Impact: Offered personalized learning experiences, adaptive instruction, multimedia resources, and interactive learning tools.
Cultural Significance: Revolutionized educational practices, student engagement, and inclusive learning opportunities.
Example: Educational software like Duolingo for language learning or Mathletics for math practice. Devices like Tablets and smartphones also play an important role, because we mostly use these devices to run or access tools.
Computer Aided Design (CAD)
Definition: Software tools enabling designers, engineers, and architects to create, modify, and analyze designs.
Impact: Streamlined design processes, enhanced precision, facilitated 3D modeling, and improved collaboration.
Cultural Significance: Innovated design disciplines, promoted interdisciplinary collaboration, and accelerated product development.
Example: Autodesk’s AutoCAD or SketchUp used across industries for design and modeling tasks. They are widely used by architectural designers to make 3D designs of house plans.
Computer Assisted Manufacturing (CAM)
Definition: Utilization of computer-controlled machinery and automation in manufacturing processes.
Impact: Increased manufacturing efficiency, accuracy, customization, and facilitated seamless integration of design and production.
Cultural Significance: Advanced manufacturing technology, adoption of Industry principles, and development of smart factories.
Example: Machines and robotic arms in automotive, aerospace, and electronics manufacturing.
General Issues Concerning Digital Technology Culture
In as much as technology helps us in various areas in our day-to-day activities especially work and socializing, we also need to factor the issues involved.
Digital Divide:
Inequalities in access to and utilization of technology between different socioeconomic groups, regions, and demographics. Addressing this issue is crucial for ensuring equal opportunities and participation in the digital age.
Privacy Concerns:
Growing concerns regarding the collection, storage, and utilization of personal data by corporations and governments. Debates around surveillance, data breaches, and the erosion of privacy rights in the digital era. Leakages of private videos, audios, photos and conversations are also concerning.
Cybersecurity:
Constant threats to digital systems, networks, and data from malicious actors such as hackers, cybercriminals, and state sponsored entities. Importance of robust cybersecurity measures to safeguard against attacks and protect sensitive information.
Ethical Considerations:
Ethical dilemmas arising from the use of technology, such as Ai bias, algorithmic discrimination, and the ethical implications of emerging technologies like autonomous vehicles and biotechnology. Discussions on establishing ethical frameworks and guidelines for the responsible development and deployment of technology.
Digital Rights:
Advocacy for fundamental rights in the digital realm, including freedom of expression, access to information, and digital literacy. Efforts to protect these rights amidst challenges like censorship, content moderation, and online misinformation.