Essay on Information Communication Technologies

Information communication technology (ICT) is a modern medium that people from various parts of the world use to connect and stay in touch. In my own opinion, it has significantly changed human beings way of life. Information communication technologies have had a major impact on individuals and the society at large, especially the career paths that people opt for. They have made peoples lives much easier and comfortable and have played a big role in shaping life in the twenty-first century.

The ICTs that I frequently use include computer-based devices, television, the internet, radio, and smartphones. Perhaps their biggest impact has been the access to huge amounts of information and services that have resulted from growth of the internet. This access has had numerous positive aspects that include faster, cheaper and convenient means of communication such as instant messaging and webcam. Also, application of ICTs in accessing information has presented new opportunities for entertainment and leisure, the ability to contact and interact with people across the world, and access to products and services from various suppliers.

As a student, ICTs have greatly improved how I access and acquire information. Through the internet, I can access any academic information I require, and also conduct research in a fast and reliable manner. ICT has made it possible to attain accuracy by the use of tools such as autocorrect, language proficiency, vocabularies, dictionaries, encyclopedias, and so on. I can access scientific information and philosophical opinions from well-known authors and reliable sources. I can also easily and conveniently interact with teachers, tutors, lecturers, classmates, mentors, and any other people in the academic world whom I wish to reach.

Information communication technologies have had a significant impact on the society. In all parts of the world, communications and transactions are now fast, easy, and reliable thanks to ICTs. Examples include money transfers, sending of messages, delivery of services, provision of early warnings in case of potential natural calamities and disasters, as well as rescue and relief operations that ensure safety for humanity. There is also the GPS (Global Positioning System) used to track locations of vehicles, ships, airplanes, and other transportation vessels to facilitate immediate responses should emergencies occur. In addition, ICT happens to be an integral part of business organizations and agencies when it comes to keeping accurate and easily accessible records. In addition, it offers the latest information on business opportunities, entertainment, and social relations.

As much as ICT is a good thing, it does have its shortcomings. For instance, it is believed to cause many of todays social ills such as addictions and depression. ICTs such as satellite television and the internet are accessible to anyone around the clock with little or no restriction. Unlimited access to the internet is capable of turning users into addicts. People can spend too much time online that they forget to interact or carry out day-to-day activities.

While I regularly use ICTs such as social media, I dont consider myself as being techno-savvy. From what I understand, the term means being proficient or well-informed about the application of modern technology, particularly that which involves the use of computers. I believe that the skills required to navigate through various technological tools are mainly acquired through experience. Generally, young people like me have more experience with technology when compared to older generations. However, this does not mean that I am techno-savvy. I just possess enough knowledge to find my way through social media.

References

Zaidi, A. U., Fernando, S., & Ammar, N. (2015). An exploratory study of the impact of information communication technology (ICT) or computer mediated communication (CMC) on the level of violence and access to service among intimate partner violence (IPV) survivors in Canada. Technology in society, 41, 91-97.