The Effects of Computers on Today's Society Coursework

The Effects of Computers on Today's Society - Coursework Example Refrigerators use built-in computers to regulate the temperature, cars have computers in the form of anti-locking breaking systems and engine controls and smart phones also make use of some very sophisticated computer technology to safe keep our contacts, music and pictures (Frisicaro et al n.d). The biggest advantage of computers is the ease with which knowledge can be made available to the masses. Whether it is journals, databases, blogs or newspapers; anyone with a connection to the internet can now have a wealth of information on their fingertips. Search engines make it easier to look for information. Computer and internet technology has specially changed the nature of education (Frisicaro et al n.d). Students are learning in a whole new fashion which could not have been thought of before the advent of computers. They can now design models, run simulations, conduct extensive research and become a part of the global information revolution at the few clicks of a mouse (Kashmanian, 2000). Research also suggests that personal computers have had a huge impact on students’ decision to graduate from high school. Students who have had access to computers show better academic performance and achieve better test scores (Beltran et al 2008). Computers have completely changed the way we read and write. Now thanks to word processors, spelling mistakes are a thing of the past and even most celebrated writers now prefer electronic writing over traditional text. Computers are also a great interpersonal medium, enhancing our conversations through emails, discussion groups and chat rooms (Ferris, 2002). But despite all the goodness of computers, there are some major drawbacks. Thanks to all the word processors, the ability to express clearly without computers has become virtually nonexistent. Chat rooms and emails have done more damage to our writing and conversation skills than anything else. The Net-Generation speaks in abbreviations and shorthand that are wreaking havoc on language skills. Young children learn this language from an early age which effectively destroys their command over English language. Computer games and the internet mean that children as well as adults these days are spending all their time in front of the computer screen. Physical activity has become virtually non-existent; this is leading to many health issues. As these children grow up, this habit has taken hold and they continue to lead this computer-oriented lifestyle for the rest of their lives (Frisicaro et al n.d..). Office goers often complain of physiological problems such as Repetitive Strain Injuries, Carpel Tunnel Syndrome and DeQuervains Tendonitis which are brought on by non-stop use of computers. But there is an even darker side to the health issue. Computers are now known to cause some very serious psychological problems as well. The first issue is that computers can cause an alienation from society, many computer users are not able to function in social s ettings and are completely dependent on computers for any interaction they have with the world at large. Another issue is stress and burnout brought on by using computers for extended periods of time. Stress can also be brought on trying to keep up with the constant changes in computer technology. Computer addiction is also a very common psychological disorder in our society. People who suffer from it are always online and in search of the latest game, program or any other addiction that may keep them hooked