Question 1

Which of the following is NOT a Neo-Luddite criticism of computers?
A) Use of computers in schools thwarts development of social skills
B) Computers separate humans from nature and destroy the environment
C) Computers cause social inequity
D) None of the above

Accepted Answer

Neo-Luddite criticisms of computers include concerns about social skills development, environmental impact, and social inequity. Therefore, none of the listed options is outside the scope of their critique.

Question 2

Ken Olson, president of Digital Equipment Corp. in the late 1970's, Thomas J. Watson, chairman of IBM in the early 1940's, and Thomas Edison all made predictions about technology that were extremely wrong. Which of the following explains why the predictions of experts are often so far off?
A) Lack of imagination about the uses people would find for technology
B) Lack of imagination about what the public would like
C) Lack of imagination about what the public would pay for
D) All of the above

Accepted Answer

The predictions of experts often miss the mark due to a combination of factors, including a lack of imagination about potential uses for technology, what the public would find appealing, and what consumers would be willing to pay for. These oversights can lead to significant underestimations of a technology's impact and potential.

Question 3

Give two of the Neo-Luddite criticisms of computer technology. Give one counter argument for each

Accepted Answer

Two Neo-Luddite criticisms of computer technology are that it leads to social isolation and that it contributes to environmental degradation.

The counter argument for the criticism of social isolation is that computer technology actually allows for greater connectivity and communication with others, through social media, video calls, and online communities. While it is true that excessive use of technology can lead to isolation, it ultimately depends on how individuals choose to use it.

The counter argument for the criticism of environmental degradation is that advancements in computer technology have led to more energy-efficient devices and data centers. Additionally, the use of digital documents and communication reduces the need for paper and physical transportation, which can have a positive impact on the environment. While the production and disposal of electronic devices can have negative environmental effects, the overall impact of computer technology on the environment is not solely negative.

Question 4

What three questions should we ask when evaluating computer models?

Accepted Answer

The answer of What three questions should we ask when...

Question 5

What are two software design and development factors which contribute to system errors and failures? What are two management and use problems which contribute to system errors and failures?

Accepted Answer

The answer of What are two software design and development...

Question 6

What is a significant criticism of Wikipedia?

Accepted Answer

The answer of What is a significant criticism of Wikipedia?...

Question 7

Simplifications and assumptions are always made when designing a computer model.

Accepted Answer

Simplifications and assumptions are necessary in computer modeling to make complex systems manageable and computationally feasible, as they help in focusing on the most important aspects of the system being modeled.

Question 8

Providing new technology to poor countries is a matter of having enough money to buy equipment.

Accepted Answer

While financial resources are crucial for acquiring new technology, other factors such as infrastructure, education, training, and ongoing support are also essential for the effective implementation and sustainable use of technology in poor countries.

Question 9

Give three Neo-Luddite criticisms of technology? Provide one counter-argument for each.

Accepted Answer

The answer of Give three Neo-Luddite criticisms of technology? Provide...

Question 10

a. What are the three questions one should ask when evaluating a computer model? 
b. What might cause a computer model to inaccurately reflect a real-world scenario?

Accepted Answer

The answer of a. What are the three questions one...

Question 11

MATCHING
-digital divide
A) refers to the fact that some people have access to computers and information technology while others do not
B) point at which artificial intelligence advances so far that we cannot comprehend what lies on the other side

Accepted Answer

The digital divide refers to the gap between individuals who have access to modern information and communication technology and those who do not. This can be due to various factors such as socioeconomic status, geographic location, age, and education level.

Question 12

MATCHING
-technological singularity
A) refers to the fact that some people have access to computers and information technology while others do not
B) point at which artificial intelligence advances so far that we cannot comprehend what lies on the other side

Accepted Answer

The technological singularity refers to a hypothetical future point at which artificial intelligence (AI) and other technologies have advanced so far that humanity undergoes a radical change that we cannot currently comprehend, often due to AI surpassing human intelligence.

Quiz 7: Evaluating and Controlling Technology

Which of the following is NOT a Neo-Luddite criticism of computers?

Ken Olson, president of Digital Equipment Corp. in the late 1970's, Thomas J. Watson, chairman of IBM in the early 1940's, and Thomas Edison all made predictions about technology that were extremely wrong. Which of the following explains why the predictions of experts are often so far off?