In this week’s readings, it discussed the topic of cultural technology and how it has changed over time. With technology constantly improving, it is changing the way we conduct our daily lives, whether in is in the household or the workplace. In the article “Laboring under the Digital Divide”, it exemplifies how the advancement in technology can provide negative outcome for IT employees. In the case of Myra Bronstein, a software tester from WatchMark, she was laid off from her occupation and forced to train her new replacement; this type of phenomenon has referred to as the “Saddamization of all conflict.” (Rodino, 488). These procedures are taking place because the digital labor force divide is being overlooked, which has led to companies looking for people who have greater access to technology and a greater media scholarship. Because of this lingering problem, Educational Centers have stressed that “Closing the digital divide will help close the achievement gap that exists in schools” (Rodino, 489).
In the article “More work for Mothers”, Cowan emphasizes how industrialization of the home has put higher expectations on the consumer and has had an inverse effect on convenience. When considering the washing machine, it is apparent that it would help make washing much more efficient. According to the text, having a washing machine (rather than hand-washing) creates a higher demand for washing clothes. This surprises me because I personally believe that new technologies have made household tasks much easier to complete, mainly because it helps save time in this fast-paced American culture.
In class, we discussed the adaptation of laundry rooms in newer modeled homes when compared to older homes. In older model homes, it was mentioned that washing machines and dryers would be placed in the basement of the home, since there was no specific room where the laundry would be done. One household feature that I have seen being influenced by technology is the “computer room”. When the computer became increasingly popular in the early 2000s, I began to notice that some homes had a special room where they would place their personal computer and computer accessories. In my own home, we have a room that is specifically used for the computer, printer, and scanners, rather than having it in the family room or bedroom. Before the computer was even in the picture, some homes would have a room that was filled with books and encyclopedias, which served as a type of personal library.
Sources:
Rodino-Colocino M. “Laboring Under the Digital Divide.” 2006; Volume 8: 487-511
Cowan, R. “More Work for Mother; Chapter 1: Housework and Its Tools” March 1985
Jessica Ruggiero says
I think you did a good job on your post. I agree with you on the fact that the article “More work for Mothers” saying that all of these new technologies are making life more difficult is not true. I too in fact think that these new household techniques have made house hold work much easier. I also like the example you gave about how the computer and the “computer room” is a newer household feature that is increasing in most homes including mine due to technology.