User:Vtaylor/Computers and Society/CIS2 Winter 2019/CIS2 Group Projects/Group B 2016 Summer

== Individual Lists ==

Sam Britz

LaToya Brown

Yaneth Gutierrez

Suman Kaur

Mike Lopez

Thien Phan

Filomeno Solarez

== 1. Introductions ==

Positive and Negative Impact of Computer in Society

We have a reached a point where computers are essential in everyday life, especially if you are a professional individual. If we don't know how to utilize computers we are looked down upon, and deemed less. We are currently living in another industrial revolution, or rather a digital revolution. This article aids the reader in understanding the positive and negative impacts computers pose on society. Examples include invasion of privacy, risk of big data loss, loss of creativity and common sense, and less employment just to name a few. In addition, this article explains how computers are being utilized across different types of industries and fields in today's society. We concluded that the information supplied by this article and the awareness created by it are essential in approaching the Introductions module. In addition to providing vital information, this article is though provoking, making the reader question computers' place in society.

Criteria to Evaluate the Credibility of WWW Resources

In today's digital world, society tends to heavily rely on computers and the internet for answers. What we forget to realize is that the internet has become the new home of what we call infomercials. It is online where we find an infinite amount of advertisements, propaganda, and biased articles. That is why it is vital that we educate ourselves and acquire the skills to be able to decipher whether an online resource is credible or not. This article gives insight into criteria that should be used to evaluate the credibility of online sources. Criteria includes questioning the author’s qualifications and credentials, connections between the author and any organization/institution, questioning if the author is biased, and verifying that the works cited are credible references. These criteria and others mentioned are essential in deciding which online resources to believe and which ones to look past. As a group, we concluded that the information supplied by this article is eye opening and essential for all of society. That is why we selected this resource as our second must read in approaching the Introductions module. In addition, this article makes you question everything you have read online and makes you aware of all the resources you come across on a daily basis.

 Why these resources were selected 

These resources were selected because they discuss the impact that computers have made on our lives and how much we rely on technology with everything we do on a daily basis.

== 2. Privacy and Freedom of Speech == Securing Your Computer to Maintain Your Privacy

This article is helpful in guiding an individual who may not have much knowledge about online privacy and explains in great detail what an individual can do to maintain their privacy. The article discusses the importance of regular computer updates regardless of what operating system it maybe. Choosing the right browser is also important. The article mentions Mozilla Firefox as being the best choice because it is an open source program which allows online security professionals to fix any bugs and strengthen the power of the browser. The directions are clear and easy to comprehend making it easy for anyone to understand,

Forum Guide to Protecting the Privacy of Student Information

The detailed guide explains in depth the basic concepts of privacy. According to the guide, school personnel is legally responsible to keep students information confidential and strong federal statues protect the privacy right of these students and their families. Privacy according to the guide is, " a uniquely personal right that reflects an individual’s freedom from intrusion." This guide is helpful with providing a detailed amount of information regarding privacy in schools across the country and the many rules that are followed in protecting these laws.

 Why these resources were selected 

These resources were selected because we felt that many individuals, including ourselves don't know very much about online privacy. These two resources give use knowledge about the basic forms of privacy online and in public institutions.

== 3. Intellectual Property == The Science Of Motivation

The Science of Motivation is a short but fun video that discusses where motivation stems from and what makes an individual lack motivation. According to the video, the Distraction Effect creates pressure for an individual to perform well in a stressful situation which brings down motivation. This situation usually happens when an individual is asked to do something that involves critical thinking or problem solving. Secondly, when setting goals one should use Mental Contrasting. Basically imagining oneself achieving individual goals along with the obstacles that they must be overcome in order to reach their destination.

Intellectual Philanthropy

Intellectual Philanthropy discusses the life of an entrepreneur and what led them to great success. This article gives a good reason for why most people are more successful then others. It mostly comes down to struggle. Most entrepreneurs struggled at a young age which made them achieve their successes. They go through two phases, the yearning phase which is a time of struggle and then the earning phase, which allows them to enjoy the fruits of their labor. I conclude that this was a good read and I feel that it gives insight to the reader explaining why certain individuals are more successful then others.

 Why these resources were selected 

These resources were selected because we felt that the topics were relevant to intellectual property which include ownership of content.

== 4. Crime ==

The Lectric Law Library,defines a crime is a wrongdoing classified by the state or Congress as a felony or misdemeanor. A crime is an offense against a public law. This word, in it’s most general sense, includes all offenses, but in its more limited sense is confined to felony. The term offense may be considered as having the same meaning, but is usually understood to be a crime not indictable but punishable, summarily or by the forfeiture of a penalty.

The 10 most Common Crimes

Crime can come in different forms. Nale (2012) explains that the use of computer technology and Internet has been utilized for child pornography. Federal and State laws makes child pornography a crime, and punishes whoever uses a minor to produce, possess, distribute or solicit materials that exploit a minor. A minor is a child under the age of 18. Any violations of federal child pornography is a serious crime that carries severe statutory penalties. Offenders can be sentenced to fines, prosecuted under federal and state law or both jurisdictions, register as sexual offenders under Megan Law

Another computer crime is Electronic Harassment, and it happens when someone uses the internet. U.S. Mail, telephone which constitutes a form of a felony crime punishable under the criminal law of the Unites States. If a person is convicted under federal law faces possible prison sentence, up to 5 years, a fine up to $250,000 or some times both.

Under 18 U.S. Code § 2261A, a person convicted of stalking under federal law faces a possible prison sentence not to exceed five years, a fine not to exceed $250,000, or both. In the case that the actions of the defendant caused the death or physical injury of another person, conviction can be up to life in prison.

Ethical Problems in Computing

When using computers we can encounter ethical problems in computing. Berzai (2012) presents important points, such as the qualifying factors for defining an act of crime. It requires certain forms of intelligence to gain access to the system. Crimes are punishable by federal and state laws and in most cases by both, keep in mind that some crimes have statutes of limitations.

The informative publication, “Prosecuting computer Crimes” explains that punishment depends on the type of crime. For example, while obtaining illegal computer information carries a sentence of 5 to 10 years, stealing national security information carries a sentence of 10 to 20 years. Meanwhile, extortion involving computers carries a sentence of 5 to 10 years.

 Why these resources were selected 

These two resources were selected because we have a strong interest in crime, which enhances our understanding of research and paralegal studies.

== 5. Employment, Education and Entertainment == Creating a Least Restrictive Environment with Mobile Devices

In Creating a Least Restrictive Environment with Mobile Devices, Holland (2013) begins by explaining that sometimes the presentation of curriculum can further disable a special needs student. Holland (2013) also explains that assistive technology allows a student and teacher to tailor the learning experience, encourages the student to present what they have learned using their preferred learning style, while promoting least restrictive environment legal mandates. The uses for Least Restrictive Environment isn’t just for students with disabilities. It is a concept for all students. By giving a student the option of how they would like to access the content, you “begin to remove many of the restrictions previously placed upon their learning environment” Holland (2013).

This article shows how giving a student the option of using a mobile device (Ipad, Android tablet, Smart Phone) can lessen the impact of a learning disability. A student with a vision impairment or dyslexia can have the text read out loud or increase the size of the text. There are several uses for mobile devices in a learning environment and this concept allows the student to “become architects of their own learning environments because the can determine the aids and services most applicable to them” Holland (2013).

12 Modern Workplace Skills Our Students Need for Success

According to the GDC Team (2016) 12 Modern Workplace Skills Our Students Need for Success discusses important workplace skills that every student should master in order to be successful in their jobs. The following are skills that are important and also relate to the course. “Independent Problem Solving Skills” are important because technology is developing so fast, students now are going to be solving problems that haven’t been invented yet. Workplaces are now more virtual now more than ever before. Partnerships across country or across the world are common so “Communication & Collaboration Skills” are needed to increase work production. “Digital Media Literacy Skills” having an “understanding technology and digital media is among the modern workplace skills that are becoming more indispensable as time goes on” One of the topics mentioned in the article that is important was Digital Citizenship skills.

Today many students use social media and other online platforms mindlessly without thinking twice about their future employer coming across this information or media. It’s always good to be professional and not post things that may make an employer reconsider.

 Why these resources were selected 

These resources were selected because of how technology and the internet relates so much to education and employment. The different concepts of the ways students can receive their education (with disabilities or without) and the new skills that colleges students need to have to be successful in today’s workforce.

== 6. Grand Challenges ==  'Scientists Begin Work on Reverse-Engineering the Brain

Carnegie Mellon University's Computer Science professor, Tai Sing Lee, along with the Center for the Neural Basis of Cognition (CNBC) are leading a research project involving exploration of the brain in relation to visual processing. Their goal is to make computers duplicate human mental processes, which in turn will have positive effects on neuroscience and artificial intelligence. Meanwhile, Sandra Kuhlman, Carnegie Mellon University Assistant Professor, is looking to track the neural dynamics within a single region of the brain. Ultimately, the intent of the research is to create machines with more human-like qualities, as well as developing improved learning and pattern recognition computer algorithms.

Can Robots be Creative?

Weinberg (2015) explains the ongoing debate between artificial intelligence and artificial creativity. This video also explains that while neurons in the brain would make synapse connections, a computer would create random algorithms to demonstrate creativity. Risks, Failures and Responsibilities.

 Why these resources were selected 

These resources were selected because we are fascinated with the possibilities of making a computer system that duplicates the creativity of the human brain.

== 7. Evaluating and Controlling Technology ==

Electrical Engineering & The Internet of Things

This article discusses the Internet of Things (IoT) and the importance of studying or being exposed to Electrical Engineering (EE). It mentions that IoT was coined back in 1999 and that it represents the endless possibilities of machines and sensors in physical objects communicating with each other with the use of the internet. IoT allows these machines and devices to be mobile, virtual, and instantaneous.

Who You Are, Really?

In this TedTalk, Brian Little explained why your personality may be easily influenced by environment and culture demands. He also debunk about the differences about introverts and extroverts. Moreover, according to psychologist Little, he said that there are 3 natures: biogenic nature, sociogenic and idiogenic nature. Many people describe themselves either introvert or extrovert, and with that belief, they even enact traits that fit into what they consider as introvert/extrovert.

 Why these resources were selected 

These resources were submitted because engineering plays a role in both biology as well as human interactions.

== 8. Risks, Failures and Responsibilities ==

Laws and Ethics can't Keep up with Technology

With the rapid growth of technology, laws have not kept up with our modern society. Certainly, technology allows changes in a short period of time. A short time ago, no one could imagine that they could able to connect with most of people all over the world through smartphone and Facebook. Moreover, full human genome sequence, which cost hundred million in 2002, now can be done for $1,000. In contrast, we still haven't acknowledge of what is ethical in relation to technologies. One of the problem could be about our DNA, genome testing would become as common as blood test, hence protecting genomic data would be a huge issue to discuss. Moreover, there is question regard to what businesses do with genomic data and could they allow to use them and sell for third parties. Meanwhile, debating on autonomous cars is still going because of its security. With all of these examples, we still have a lot to do in order to keep up with the advances that technology is developing.

Machine Morality and Human Responsibility

Fast forward a century from 1900s, technology nowadays becomes responsible for controlling our services from finance to daily life. Indeed, It took over many of human challenges and difficulty such as planning military defense or even create new innovations. As human being, we seek for efficiency solutions, thus we would expect to be much more dependent on machine intelligent. Nevertheless, responsibilities is not just disappeared themselves, it changes as our society change. Yet, human beings seems to be increasingly irresponsible when it come to the way we interact with machines.

 Why these resources were selected 

These resources were selected because computer technology innovations have resulted in either new responsive legislation or consideration of new laws.

== 9. Anytime, Anywhere == More People, Fewer Cars

Shifting toward a green planet is a great trend.In this Tedtalk, Mr. Kalanick explained how Uber firm attacks on pollution and provide a plan to get more people into fewer cars. It is interesting to hear Mr. Kalanick's plan and how he mentioned that regulation has slow the process of making cities less pollution by putting the cap on commute charges.

Political Platform

A website that tracks candidate policies in the 2016 elections so voters are informed. Even though it doesn't have attractive design, it is easy to use and provide solid information about each candidates. For instance, after select a candidate, you can see the summary of policies from each sector ( Crime, Environment, Foreign policies etc ). You can also make comments and see other comments. It gathers information from various news and sources.

 Why these resources were selected 

These resources were selected because mobile innovations may affect all aspects of life, especially government, transportation and communication.

== 10. Technology Advances, Social Trends ==

The World is Changing

This Youtube video provided in depth- estimate statistic about population, investment and growth rate of not only countries but the Earth as a whole in overall. It is important to point out the estimate rate base on our current growth rate so that we can be aware of what is going to happen in the next decades. For instance, with the current steady increase rate of population, we are expected to have 9 billion people on Earth. This is a huge social issue because resources are limited and population is increasing, thus, we have to raise the awareness of allocating resources and how to designate them in the most efficiency way. Moreover, with the increase in population, the need of building infrastructure is also crucial. According to the video, 4,000 houses/ hour  would need to be build worldwide. This would either destroy our ecology or could be a great challenge for innovators to change the way we structure our house and the way we live. Indeed, we could develop house plans that aren't required much space and provide more green investments. An increase in population will definitely shape how we live in the future.

Meanwhile, in 2011, 1 in 3 people has access to the internet which is indicate how quick we adopt to the new Internet social platform, and it is the fundamental tool for us to gain information and knowledge. With Internet, we are able to share ideas and information easier and faster across countries. As the result, productivity is increasing as a phenomenal rate, and living standard is moving in the same direction. Nonetheless, this would also bring challenges for us to think about. For instance, as we adopt to how modern society work, we seems not able to catch up with the technology advances. Indeed, with more than billion of people that have access to internet, it is harder to regulate and control freedom or privacy of individual.

Future of Food

With the growth rate of economic and population, there will be an increase in food demand. While this is a good new, raising meat would impact the environment negatively. That lead us to challenge the idea of making food enough for billion of people without harming our limited resources. Indeed, new firms are taking this challenge and some are creating plant based alternative to beef, poultry that are more sustainable and taste great. It is great to know that there are people that already step ahead of in this field because it will help us to become a sustainable society overall. Changing diet will be one of the biggest revision of human society in the future. Fortunately, this potential industry would be well prepare in order to compete with the food market because of its efficient cost. Cost of produce plant meat based would be cheap and require less work in shorter time compare to raise meat.

 Why these resources were selected 

These resources were selected because they discuss the issues that we currently are facing such as lack of natural resources, increase in population which leads to an increase in the demand for food, and decaying of the existing infrastructure. Furthermore, these resources give insight into how technology is being used to create innovative ways towards achieving true sustainability. It has come to the point, where if we don't aim towards achieving sustainability, we may be placing our own existence in jeopardy.