Research Portfolio: The Impact of Technology on People’s Lives
Research Questions
- How has technology influenced interpersonal communication?
- What role does technology play in shaping mental health outcomes?
- In what ways has technology changed the landscape of education?
- How does technology affect job markets and employment opportunities?
- What are the environmental consequences of increased technological reliance?
Hook
As of 2021, the average American spends over 12 hours a day interacting with media on various devices, revolutionizing how we perceive reality and connect with one another.
Background
The rapid advancement of technology over the past few decades has had a profound impact on almost every aspect of daily life. From smartphones and social media to artificial intelligence and virtual reality, technology has transformed how people communicate, learn, work, and even understand themselves. While some celebrate these changes as essential to modern life, others caution against the unintended consequences that can arise from living in an increasingly digital world.
Thesis
This portfolio explores the multifaceted impacts of technology on individuals' lives, focusing on communication, mental health, education, employment, and environmental sustainability.
Claim #1: Technology has transformed interpersonal communication.
Evidence:
"While technology connects us across distances, it often exacerbates feelings of loneliness and disconnect in face-to-face interactions" (Twenge 89).
Source:
Twenge, Jean M. "iGen: Why Today's Super-Connected Kids Are Growing Up Less Rebellious, More Tolerant, Less Happy—And Completely Unprepared for Adulthood." Atria Books, 2017.
Analysis:
This evidence illustrates that technology, while ostensibly enhancing communication by breaking down geographical barriers, may paradoxically diminish authentic interpersonal relationships, showcasing the dual-edged nature of technological progress.
Claim #2: Technology is linked to various mental health outcomes.
Evidence:
"A study by the American Psychological Association found that excessive screen time correlates with increased anxiety and depression among adolescents" (APA).
Source:
American Psychological Association. "The Impact of Social Media on Mental Health." www.apa.org, 2020.
Analysis:
The correlation presented here underscores the potential negative impacts of excessive technology use, highlighting a pressing public health concern that warrants attention and further investigation, particularly as mental health issues proliferate in younger populations.
Claim #3: Technology has revolutionized education.
Evidence:
"Online learning platforms have increased access to education, allowing students from diverse backgrounds to pursue knowledge at their own pace" (World Economic Forum).
Source:
World Economic Forum. "The Future of Education: How Technology Will Transform Learning." www.weforum.org, 2021.
Analysis:
This evidence emphasizes how technology democratizes education, making it more accessible and customizable. It reveals a positive impact of technology that stands in stark contrast to some of the anxieties surrounding its influence on social relationships and mental health.
Claim #4: Technology reshapes job markets and employment opportunities.
Evidence:
"Automation and AI are predicted to displace 85 million jobs worldwide by 2025, according to the World Economic Forum" (WEF).
Source:
World Economic Forum. "The Future of Jobs Report 2020." www.weforum.org, 2020.
Analysis:
This statistic indicates a significant transformation in the labor market driven by technology, urging a re-examination of workforce skills and priorities. It reflects a critical need for educational institutions and policymakers to address the skills gap created by rapid technological advancement.
Restate Thesis
The exploration of technology's influence on individuals reveals a complex landscape that encompasses communication, mental health, education, employment, and environmental issues.
Synthesize
In reviewing how technology affects communication, mental health, education, and employment, it becomes evident that while technology offers numerous advantages, it simultaneously poses challenges that require careful management and consideration. The dual nature of technological impacts suggests a need for balance and innovation in addressing its consequences.
Final Thought
In an era where technology permeates daily existence, understanding its multifaceted effects empowers individuals and society to navigate the realities of digital life thoughtfully and responsibly, ensuring that advancements serve to enhance rather than diminish our humanity.