A Day Without Digital Technology

A day without using a significant piece of modern digital technology such as a cell phone, a laptop, Facebook, or even the Internet should be simple and stress free, but it is truly more complex than one would imagine. Could you last a day without one of these technological marvels? I attempted to go one day without my cell phone. Initially it did not seem more than the emptiness in my pocket or the dreaded feeling that I had forgotten something. However, not having my cell phone seemed to inconvenience others wanting to contact me. My roommate begrudgingly acted as my answering service, constantly relaying messages to me. In turn, I had to locate friends during the course of the day to communicate subject matter that could not wait any longer. Although I felt having to search for friends was a waste of time, I did enjoy the outdoors. Throughout the school day, I could not text anyone to finalize plans, take pictures, or play games for entertainment when I was bored. I am definitely more dependent on my cell phone than I anticipated.

Wendell Berry, author and farmer for over thirty years, views technology as an unwanted expenditure of money, time, and energy. After reading his article, "Why I Am Not Going To Buy A Computer," detailing his opinions on computers and technology, I believe he could effortlessly complete a day without technology. Berry's wife types his writings on a typewriter instead of using a computer. According to Berry, the price for computers is prohibitive. While the monetary cost for computers may decline, the sacrifices are just too great. Berry notes public schools have computers, but not enough money to purchase textbooks. He also laments that computers do not promote world peace, solve ecological ailments, or encourage integrity. He masterfully argues using a computer would also compromise his relationship with his wife since her skills would no longer be required.

I can somewhat agree with Berry's belief that technological dependence is excessive. Integrating computers into the educational system seems to be going too far if students do not have access to books. I understand his perspective on spending quality time with loved ones; however, a cell phone allows me to quickly contact more people than if I had to personally locate them.

In my life today, removing all forms of technological devices would be disastrous. All of my college instructors place information, alerts, assignments, and grades on an Internet website, Desire2Learn. Teachers send out mass emails to the class documenting significant dates and revising assignments. Email is the preferred method for corresponding with teachers. I feel integrated advanced technology in college life is necessary. Teaching students hos to successfully manage the technology will provide basic skills needed to survive after graduation.

I do appreciate Berry's handwritten work using pen/pencil and paper since I too enjoy writing. I used to write by hand, but then it became too cumbersome transferring thoughts from paper to computer, so now I primarily use the computer. I do envy the fact that he can write whenever and wherever he desires, but because of my growing affinity for the computer I no longer have that luxury. I feel as if technology is constantly changing, and I am becoming addicted. The only reason I wish technology changes would slow is so that I could possibly start a journal and hand write stories, just as Berry does.