technology = communication

26 02 2007

True interactivity is not about clicking on icons or downloading files, it’s about encouraging communication.
Edwin Schlossberg, 2002

As i read Jeff Utecht’s Thinking Stick this morning i began reflecting on the enhancements that technology have brought to my life. Of course, like any modern citizen they are countless. As Jeff is a fellow teacher working overseas my memories immediately jumped to Bahrain (my first international placement). Then, i thought i would only be doing this for a year or two; then, i had Sunday phone calls to communicate with family in Canada; then, i trusted the years i had spent building friendships would be enough for them to go without talking for 12 months; then (thankfully) was different then now. The calls almost bankrupted my parents (who insisted they do the calling). Yes the weekly check-ups do still exist, but in a different manner and at a different cost (skype - that allows them to watch their grandson grow). It is also accompanied by short chats, blog entries and emails. Furthermore, as my career as an international educator developed the geography that has separated me from many dear friends has also grown exponentially (this is clearly demonstrated on the ClustrMap that accompanies my personal blog).
Using the communication tools that i had when i first ventured into international teaching; could i have maintained the friendships that i have around the globe today? I certainly wouldn’t get up-to-date reports on Elly’s pregnancy, or know when Steve’s having a rough day, i got to know immediately when Gavin took his first step and instantaneously when Deportivo Quito gets another win even Jeff U’s travel updates are available to me within minutes of their posting.

If you have ever seen The 1970’s Office from SkyOne you may have already reflected on what modern life would be without these tools, that have so quickly become essentials to our daily lives. This train of thought sent my thinking deeper and i got to wondering: where would i be without technology? i really love my life, so i left that thought and went on blogging.