This week’s call with Russia raised many questions about cultural differences as well as differences in academic lectures. I thought the question about using the Internet at the university very interesting, because I always had the feeling that German universities might be a bit slow in introducing these things. Many professors are still rather old-school, but I think the institute that I study at in Germany is similar to UNL. The advantages of using the internet for classes include a faster communication, broader opportunities for the student to prepare and research. What I see as a disadvantage is that academic research methods sometimes only contain internet and that it is not always necessary to communicate face-to-face.
In other parts of life technology has also changed a lot. Wheras they allow us to network (professionally for jobs or privately) or promote businesses and stay in touch with people, I think it is dangerous if it is a substitute for actually meeting people or if people not participating in social networks are being left out. However, when it is used wisely it can be a great tool of communication. Especially when traveling and meeting new people or being away from friends and family, I really appreciate the technology and opportunities that we have now, because it allows me to share my experiences and to stay in touch. If we are aware of the dangers and really only use it as a tool and not as the only way of communicating it can be a enrichment to our communication.
Here are 2 little clips about Facebook that caught up on those topics:
Ulli Heinicke
No comments:
Post a Comment