Computers and Technologyas Distractions

Samuel TeichSamuel Vickers

The Problem

•Increasingly mobile technology has created a dangerous distraction in our society

•This creates a tension between physical presence and virtual presence with potentially harmful results

Current State

•Due to improved technology, computers are becoming more prevalent in our daily routine.

•Some states have enacted legislation to control use of devices in some circumstances.

Future Concerns

•Omnipresent computing

•New means of computing will only increase level of distraction

Psychological View

•The human brain cannot multitask effectively

•“Cognitive Bottleneck Theory”

Ethical Analysis

Kantian and Utilitarian evaluation of:

•The use of a device

•Introduction of a new device in to society

Potential Solutions

•Public Education of Risks

•Improved Technology

•Legislation

Conclusion

•Cell phones pose most visible predicament

•All entities involved have some ethical duty

•Cultural shift as a possible solution

Questions?

Bibliography• “Cell Phone and Texting Laws” Governors Highway Safety Association, November

2011

• “Intelligence, working memory, and multitasking performance” Roberto Colom. Universidad Autonoma de Madrid. 16 September 2010. Madrid, Spain

• “The Quest for a Unified Theory of Multitasking. The Multitasking Mind” Salvucci, Taatgen. Oxford University Press. 2011

• “Distraction and pedestrian safety: How talking on the phone, texting, and listening to music impact crossing the street” David C. Schwebel. University of Alabama. July 2011

• “Human Multitasking” Wikipedia Article. Last modified November 13, 2011

• “Task Switching” Wikipedia Article. Last modified October 12, 2011

• “Executive functions” Wikipedia Article. Last modified November 16 2011

Bibliography (cont.)

• “Examining the impact of off-task multi-tasking with technology on real-time classroom learning”

Eileen Wood. Wilfrid Laurier University. August 2011

• “Distracted walking: Cell Phones increase injury risk for college pedestrians” Despina Stavrinos. University of Alabama. March 2011

• “Statistics and Facts About Distracted Driving” www.distraction.gov US Department of Transportation