Digital Divide v/s Family Divide (Essay Final Draft)

Alongside with the rapid development of the digital technology, the global usage of Internet has exhibited an exponential growth within the past few decades. In light with the mounting trend, the existence of digital divide has always been strongly debated for causing significant problems throughout the world. According to the Measuring the Information Society Report 2013 by International Telecommunication Union (ITU), Malaysia emerged as having the fourth-highest proportion of ‘digital natives’ in the world. On top of that, 90% of urban youths are using the Internet (Soh, Chew & Ang, 2008). Yet, when these ‘digital natives’, representing the group of Generation X and younger, stumble across the ‘digital immigrants’, specifically their parents, a family divide is formed.

This generational gap is not computed solely on the age, but also in terms of culture. Digital natives ‘speak and breathe the language of computers’ whereas for digital immigrants, dealing with technology is just not as easy as how the other group views it (Zur, O. & Walker, A, 2011). Zur and Walker (2011) also mention that this situation will eventually cause ‘misunderstandings, misperceptions, conflict, disharmony and communication breakdowns’. In order to solve this problem, the Ministry of Women, Family and Community Development should develop awareness campaigns and relevant counselling courses to help Malaysian families achieve a balance between technology management and family relationships.

 The paramount effect of the digital divide on family relationships is within the context of communication. Kids nowadays are able to navigate themselves at ease in the world of modern technology. The infinite information that is available online enables them to access any data that they are interested in. This conflicts with the traditional family culture where children will direct their curiosities to their parents. Rob Waugh (2012) mentions that, 54% of the 6 to 15 years old in America said that they tended to direct their questions to Google rather than their parents or teachers. This can be projected as a future issue in Malaysia as children are more dependent on Internet than earlier generations used to be. For example, Household Use of the Internet Survey (2011) done by Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission, reports that Internet users below 15 years old already account for 11% of all users, surpassing users in the 35-39 age group which is only 10.4%.

Unlike their children who are already well-versed in the modern technology, the parents ‘struggle to gain proficiency and comfort’ in it (Taylor, 2013). Therefore, when it comes to the issue of controlling the usage of Internet, they cannot exhibit a sense of authority towards their children with only nagging or even threatening about it. Children might perceive that the parents cannot understand the importance of Internet thus refusing to obey to the limitations. Conflicts are then created as both sides try to stand their grounds without trying to understand each other’s considerations and anxiety. In short, technology not only leads to a diminishing interaction between parents and children, but it also intensifies the tension between parents and children.

The Ministry of Women, Family and Community Development are responsible in expanding access of Information and Communication Technology (ICT) for woman, families and communities. Apart from focusing on the basic infrastructures to grant access of Internet to families, the ministry should consider the social consequences such as the family divide due to different level of engagement in ICT. Awareness campaigns and relevant counselling courses to address such problem should be conducted. For example, in conjunction with the ministry’s effort to encourage the Internet access within families, more considerations should be given to those digital immigrants in families who are avoiding the technology invasion. Those who are unwilling to adopt technology as part of their daily lives are more likely to have passive perceptions towards the benefits that are mentioned. Just as what Zur and Walker (2011) imply, the ‘avoiders’ cannot see the value in the usage of Internet. The ministry should consider approaching this target group by courteously exposing the benefits of Internet through awareness campaigns. In “Family conflict – how to cope”(n.d.), it was stated that conflicts sometimes happen due to different beliefs and views among family members. Therefore, by enhancing the understanding towards the advantages of Internet usage, this strategy aims to foster a perception change within the ‘avoiders’ and narrow the family divide.   

At the same time, the ministry can provide counselling services to parents who are apprehensive towards the use of technology in the family. Strategies such as effective communication approaches can be highlighted to the parents so that they can communicate in a way that children are more willing to listen to. For instance, parents can learn how to communicate support to their children regarding the issue of Internet usage, while at the same time retaining their stand that excessive usage is unadvisable. Lansbury (2011) asserts that acknowledging, instead of judging or “fixing”, fosters trust and encourages children to keep sharing their feelings. With this particular methodology, the children will be less defensive in listening and therefore provides more space for them to communicate their anxiety and misunderstandings. The risks of conflicts will then be reduced as both sides are mentally prepared to sort out a win-win solution.

All in all, the issue of family divide deserves a more sophisticated approach as it includes elements of internal perception in response to the digital divide. From the group of ‘avoiders’ who tend to mentally resist the dominance of internet to the difference of perception between parents and children, all the ‘avoiders’ and the family members need  is just a sense of understanding on how they feel. To conclude, the Ministry of Women, Family and Community Development should comprehend this issue from a strategic perspective in order to solve this problem efficiently.

References

International Telecommunications Union. (2013). Measuring the information society. Retrieved on Oct 2^nd,2014, from  http://www.itu.int/en/ITU-D/Statistics/Documents/publications/mis2013/MIS2013_without_Annex_4.pdf

Lansbury. J. (2011). The key to your child’s heart (7 ways it works). Retrieved on Oct 2^nd, 2014, from http://www.janetlansbury.com/2011/11/the-key-to-your-childs-heart-7-ways-it-works/

Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission. (2011). Household use of the internet survey 2011. Retrieved on Oct 4^th, 2014, from http://www.skmm.gov.my/skmmgovmy/media/General/pdf/Household-Use-of-The-Internet-Survey-2011_051212.pdf

Ministry of Women, Family and Community Development. (n.d.). Strategies.  Retrieved on Oct 2^nd, 2014, from http://www.kpwkm.gov.my/strategi

Soh, C.H, Yap L.Y, Ong, T.S. & Teh, B.H. (2012). Digital divide amongst urban youths in Malaysia – myth or reality? Asian Social Science – Online Publication. Retrieved on Oct 2^nd, 2014, from http://www.ccsenet.org/journal/index.php/ass/article/view/22648

Taylor. J. (2013). Is technology creating a family divide?. Psychology Today. Retrieved on Oct 2^nd, 2014, from http://www.psychologytoday.com/blog/the-power-prime/201303/is-technology-creating-family-divide

Victoria State Government. (n.d.). Family conflict- how to cope. Retrieved on Oct 4^th ,2014, from http://www.betterhealth.vic.gov.au/bhcv2/bhcarticles.nsf/pages/Family_conflict_how_to_cope

Waugh. R. (2012). Daddy no longer knows best? Most children would prefer to ask Google if they have a question - not their parents. Daily Mail. Retrieved on Oct 2^nd, 2014, from http://www.dailymail.co.uk/sciencetech/article-2112223/Most-children-prefer-ask-GOOGLE-question-parents.html#ixzz3Exb8KZk8

Zur, O. & Walker, A. (2011). On digital immigrants and digital natives: How the digital divide affects families, educational institutions, and the workplace. Zur Institute - Online Publication. Retrieved on Oct 2^nd, 2014, from http://www.zurinstitute.com/digital_divide.html

Critical Reflection (Peer and Tutor Feedback）

To be honest, we are unconsciously engaging in the feedback process every day in our life. Whenever we are commenting on someone's appearance or even flavors of the food, we are providing feedback. It is so natural that I never thought of the feedback process will be so critical in my English Language Journey. Besides achieving the literal motives to improve one's writing skills, peer review and tutor feedback actually manage to encourage interaction among peers and promote critical thinking skills.

During the peer review process, we are able to exchange our viewpoints on various grammar mistakes present in the essay reviewed. After in-depth discussion within the peer review team, one will actually be more concerned about the mistakes identified. As for me, I would not want to repeat the same mistake that I pointed out in others' essay. As for the tutor feedback, the comments provided are more specific and sometimes includes mistakes that the peer review team might overlooked. Thus, if the tutor feedback is done in front of the whole class, everyone can benefit through the process. Therefore, peer review and tutor feedback are both valuable to supplement each other within the essay writing process.

The peer review process serves to reverse our role as a reviewer instead of a writer, which we are unlikely to experience before this. By judging other people’s essay critically, we are actually strengthening our understanding towards the concepts mentioned in class in order to identify them. As a writer, when you received feedback from either your peers or your tutor, you can use the help from others to improve certain aspects of your essay by accepting other’s judgement willingly.

Moreover, peer review sometimes exerts peer pressure on us, whereby we will feel nervous if our friends are going to judge our essay. This actually contradicts with the traditional culture where students will only be judged by teachers. The violation of our expectation therefore results in the situation whereby we will be more focus and conscious towards the quality of our essay before sending it for peer review.   

Lastly, through interacting with the peer review team, I also learnt to listen and to take into account various kinds of opinions before making prejudgments. In short, I believe this process will be valuable not only in terms of essay writing but also in terms of communicating with people.    

         

Reflection on Essay Presentation

After I did my essay presentation, there are a few points that need to be improved.

Firstly, in terms of preparation, I do think that I didn't put in enough effort. Therefore, it resulted in a high level of nervousness throughout my presentation. Besides, the presence of short notes a.k.a cue cards (which is compulsory for my public speaking speeches) distracted my concentration as I tended to read according to the notes. Last but not least, I have always been less confident about my ability in speaking English, probably because of my accent or pronunciation, therefore I was unable to present myself naturally during the presentation.

Knowing these weaknesses, I will try my best to overcome them as we know that presentations are essential not only during our university life but also our work life. I will try to build up my confidence from time to time and also prepare well in order to familiarize myself with the topic of the presentation. Although this process does take time, but I believe that as long as I am willing to make a change then I can definitely make it.  

Digital Divide v/s Family Divide (Essay Draft 3)

Alongside with the rapid development of the digital technology, the global usage of Internet has exhibited an exponential growth within the past few decades. In light with the mounting trend, the existence of digital divide has always been strongly debated for causing significant problems throughout the world. According to the Measuring the Information Society Report 2013 by International Telecommunication Union (ITU), Malaysia emerged as having the fourth-highest proportion of ‘digital natives’ in the world. On top of that, 90% of urban youths are using the Internet (Soh, Chew & Ang, 2008). Yet, when these ‘digital natives’, representing the group of Generation X and younger, stumble across the ‘digital immigrants’, specifically their parents, a family divide is formed.

This generational gap is not computed solely on the age, but also in terms of culture. Digital natives ‘speak and breathe the language of computers’ whereas for digital immigrants, dealing with technology is just not as easy as how the other group does (Zur, O. & Walker, A, 2011). Zur and Walker (2011) also mention that this situation will eventually cause ‘misunderstandings, misperceptions, conflict, disharmony and communication breakdowns’. In order to solve this problem, the Ministry of Women, Family and Community Development should hold awareness campaigns and relevant counselling courses to help Malaysian families to achieve a balance between technology management and family relationships.

The paramount effect of the divide on family relationships is directed to the context of communication. Due to the infinite information that is available online, the kids are able to access any data that they are interested in. This contradicts with the traditional family culture where children will direct their curiosities to their parents. Rob Waugh (2012) mentions that, 54% of the 6 to 15 years old in America said that they tended to direct their questions to Google rather than their parents or teachers. This can be projected as a future issue in Malaysia as children are more dependent on Internet than earlier generations used to be. For example, Household Use of the Internet Survey (2011) done by Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission, reports that Internet users below 15 years old already accounted for 11% of all users, surpassing users in the 35-39 age group which is only 10.4%.

Unlike their children who are already well-versed in the modern technology, the parents ‘struggle to gain proficiency and comfort’ in it (Taylor, 2013). Therefore, when it comes to the issue of controlling the usage of Internet, they cannot exhibit a sense of authority towards their children with only nagging or even threatening about it. Children might perceive that the parents cannot understand the importance of Internet thus refusing to obey to the limitations. Conflicts are then created as both sides try to ground their stands without trying to understand each other’s considerations and anxiety. In short, technology not only leads to a diminishing interaction between parents and children, but it also intensifies the tension between parents and children.

The Ministry of Women, Family and Community Development are responsible in expanding access of Information and Communication Technology (ICT) for woman, families and communities. Apart from focusing on the basic infrastructures to grant access of Internet to families, the ministry should consider the social consequences such as the family divide due to different level of engagement in ICT. Awareness campaigns and relevant counselling courses to address such problem should be conducted. For example, in conjunction with the ministry’s effort to encourage the Internet access within families, more considerations should be given to those digital immigrants in families who are avoiding the technology invasion. Those who are unwilling to adopt technology as part of their daily lives are more likely to have passive perceptions towards the benefits that are mentioned. Just as what Zur and Walker (2011) imply, the ‘avoiders’ cannot see the value in the usage of Internet. The ministry should consider approaching this target group by courteously exposing the benefits of Internet through awareness campaigns. In “Family conflict – how to cope”(n.d.), it was stated that conflicts sometimes happen due to different beliefs and views among family members. Therefore, by enhancing the understanding towards the advantages of Internet usage, this strategy aims to foster a perception change within the ‘avoiders’ and narrow the family divide.   

At the same time, the ministry can provide counselling services to parents who are apprehensive towards the use of technology in the family. Strategies such as effective communication approaches can be highlighted to the parents so that they can communicate in a way that children are more willing to listen to. For instance, parents can learn how to communicate support to their children regarding the issue of Internet usage but at the same time retaining their stand that excessive usage is unadvisable. Lansbury (2011) asserts that acknowledging, instead of judging or “fixing”, fosters trust and encourages children to keep sharing their feelings. With this particular methodology, the children will be less defensive in listening and therefore provide more space for them to communicate their anxiety and misunderstandings. The risks of conflicts will then be reduced as both sides are mentally prepared to sort out a win-win solution.

All in all, the issue of family divide deserves a more sophisticated approach as it includes elements of internal perception in response to the digital divide. From the group of ‘avoiders’ who tend to mentally resist the dominance of internet to the difference of perception within parents and children, all they need is just a sense of understanding on how they feel. To conclude, the Ministry of Women, Family and Community Development should comprehend this issue from a mental perspective in order to solve this problem efficiently.

References

 International Telecommunications Union. (2013). Measuring the information society. Retrieved on Oct 2^nd,2014, from  http://www.itu.int/en/ITU-D/Statistics/Documents/publications/mis2013/MIS2013_without_Annex_4.pdf

Lansbury. J. (2011). The key to your child’s heart (7 ways it works). Retrieved on Oct 2^nd, 2014, from http://www.janetlansbury.com/2011/11/the-key-to-your-childs-heart-7-ways-it-works/

Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission. (2011). Household use of the internet survey 2011. Retrieved on Oct 4^th, 2014, from http://www.skmm.gov.my/skmmgovmy/media/General/pdf/Household-Use-of-The-Internet-Survey-2011_051212.pdf

Ministry of Women, Family and Community Development. (n.d.). Strategies.  Retrieved on Oct 2^nd, 2014, from http://www.kpwkm.gov.my/strategi

Soh, C.H, Yap L.Y, Ong, T.S. & Teh, B.H. (2012). Digital divide amongst urban youths in Malaysia – myth or reality? Asian Social Science – Online Publication. Retrieved on Oct 2^nd, 2014, from http://www.ccsenet.org/journal/index.php/ass/article/view/22648

Taylor. J. (2013). Is technology creating a family divide?. Psychology Today. Retrieved on Oct 2^nd, 2014, from http://www.psychologytoday.com/blog/the-power-prime/201303/is-technology-creating-family-divide

Victoria State Government. (n.d.). Family conflict- how to cope. Retrieved on Oct 4^th ,2014, from http://www.betterhealth.vic.gov.au/bhcv2/bhcarticles.nsf/pages/Family_conflict_how_to_cope

Waugh. R. (2012). Daddy no longer knows best? Most children would prefer to ask Google if they have a question - not their parents. Daily Mail. Retrieved on Oct 2^nd, 2014, from http://www.dailymail.co.uk/sciencetech/article-2112223/Most-children-prefer-ask-GOOGLE-question-parents.html#ixzz3Exb8KZk8

Zur, O. & Zur, A. (2011). On digital immigrants and digital natives: How the digital divide affects families, educational institutions, and the workplace. Zur Institute - Online Publication. Retrieved on Oct 2^nd, 2014, from http://www.zurinstitute.com/digital_divide.html

Digital Divide v/s Family Divide (Essay Draft 2)

Introduction

Alongside with the rapid development of the digital era, the global usage of Internet has exhibited an exponential growth within the past few decades. In contrast with the mounting trend, digital divide has always been strongly debated for causing significant problems throughout the world. According to the Measuring the Information Society Report 2013 by International Telecommunication Union (ITU), Malaysia emerged as having the fourth-highest proportion of ‘digital natives’ in the world. On top of that, 90% of urban youths are using the Internet (Soh, Chew & Ang, 2008). Yet, when these ‘digital natives’, representing the group of Generation X and younger, stumble across the ‘digital immigrants’, specifically their parents, a family divide is formed.

This generational gap is not computed solely on the age, but also in terms of culture. Digital natives ‘speak and breathe the language of computers’ whereas for digital immigrants, dealing with technology is just not an easy task for them (Zur, O. & Walker, A, 2011). Zur and Walker (2011) also mention that this situation will eventually cause ‘misunderstandings, misperceptions, conflict, disharmony and communication breakdowns’. In order to solve this problem, the Ministry of Women, Family and Community Development should hold awareness campaigns and relevant counselling courses to help Malaysian families to achieve a balance between technology management and family relationships.

The Family Divide

First of all, the main impact of the divide towards family relationships is directed to the context of communication. Due to the infinite information that is available online, the children are able to access any data that they are interested in. Hence, it contradicts with the traditional family culture where children will direct their curiosities to their parents. Rob Waugh (2012) mentions that, 54% of the 6 to 15 years old in America said that they tend to direct their questions to Google rather than their parents or teachers. This can be projected as a future issue in Malaysia as children are more dependent on Internet than earlier generations used to be. For example, Household Use of the Internet Survey (2011) done by Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission, reports that Internet users below 15 years old had already accounted for 11% of all users, surpassing users in the 35-39 age group which is only 10.4%.

On the other hand, the parents ‘struggle to gain proficiency and comfort’ towards the modern technology which their children are already well-versed in it (Taylor, 2013). Therefore, when it comes to the issue of controlling the usage of Internet, they could not exhibit a sense of authority towards their children with only nagging or even threatening about it. Children might perceive that the parents could not understand the importance of Internet thus refuse to obey to the limitations. Conflicts are then created as both sides try to ground their stands without trying to understand each other’s considerations and anxiety. In short, technology not only leads to a diminishing interaction between parents and children, but it also intensifies the tension between parents and children.

Proposed Solutions

The Ministry of Women, Family and Community Development are responsible in expanding access of Information and Communication Technology (ICT) on woman, families and communities. Apart from focusing on the basic infrastructures to grant access of Internet to families, the ministry should consider the social consequences such as the family divide due to different level of engagement in ICT. Awareness campaigns and relevant counselling courses to address such problem should be conducted.

Awareness Campaign

For example, in conjunction with the ministry’s effort to encourage the Internet access within families, more concerns should be given to those digital immigrants in families who are avoiding the technology invasion. Those who are unwilling to adopt technology as part of their daily lives are more likely to have passive perceptions towards the benefits that are mentioned. As what Zur and Walker (2011) imply, the ‘avoiders’ could not see the value in the usage of Internet. The ministry should consider approaching this target group by courteously exposing the benefits of Internet through awareness campaigns. In “Family conflict – how to cope”(n.d.), it was stated that conflicts sometimes happen due to different beliefs and views among family members. Therefore, by enhancing the understanding towards the advantages of Internet usage, this strategy aims to foster a perception change within the ‘avoiders’ and narrow the family divide.   

Counselling Courses

Besides, the ministry can provide counselling services to parents who are apprehended towards the use of technology in the family. Strategies such as effective communication approaches can be highlighted to the parents so that they can communicate in a way that children are more willing to listen to. For instance, parents can learn how to communicate support to their children regarding the issue of Internet usage but at the same time retaining their stand that excessive usage is unadvisable. Lansbury (2011) asserts that acknowledging, instead of judging or “fixing”, fosters trust and encourages children to keep sharing their feelings. With this particular methodology, the children will be less defensive in listening and therefore will be better able to communicate their anxiety and misunderstandings. The risks of conflicts will then be reduced as both sides are mentally prepared to achieve a win-win solution.

Conclusion 

All in all, the issue of family divide deserves a more sophisticated approach as it includes elements of internal perception in response to the digital divide. From the group of ‘avoiders’ who tend to mentally resist the dominance of internet to the difference of perception within parents and children, a better sense of understanding on how they feel will help to bridge the family divide. Therefore the Ministry of Women, Family and Community Development should comprehend this issue from a mental perspective in order to solve this problem efficiently.

References

Family conflict- how to cope.(n.d.). Retrieved on Oct 4^th ,2014, from http://www.betterhealth.vic.gov.au/bhcv2/bhcarticles.nsf/pages/Family_conflict_how_to_cope

International Telecommunications Union. (2013). Measuring the information society. Retrieved on Oct 2^nd,2014, from  http://www.itu.int/en/ITU-D/Statistics/Documents/publications/mis2013/MIS2013_without_Annex_4.pdf

Lansbury, J. (2011). The key to your child’s heart (7 ways it works). Retrieved on Oct 2^nd, 2014, from http://www.janetlansbury.com/2011/11/the-key-to-your-childs-heart-7-ways-it-works/

Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission. (2011). Household use of the internet survey 2011. Retrieved on Oct 4^th, 2014, from http://www.skmm.gov.my/skmmgovmy/media/General/pdf/Household-Use-of-The-Internet-Survey-2011_051212.pdf

Ministry of Women, Family and Community Development. (n.d.). Strategies.  Retrieved on Oct 2^nd, 2014, from http://www.kpwkm.gov.my/strategi

Patrick C-H Soh, Yap Liang Yan, Tze San Ong & Boon Heng Teh. (2012). Digital divide amongst urban youths in Malaysia – myth or reality? Asian Social Science – Online Publication. Retrieved on Oct 2^nd, 2014, from http://www.ccsenet.org/journal/index.php/ass/article/view/22648

Taylor, J. (2013). Is technology creating a family divide?. Retrieved on Oct 2^nd, 2014, from http://www.psychologytoday.com/blog/the-power-prime/201303/is-technology-creating-family-divide

Waugh, R. (2012). Daddy no longer knows best? Most children would prefer to ask Google if they have a question - not their parents. Retrieved on Oct 2^nd, 2014, from http://www.dailymail.co.uk/sciencetech/article-2112223/Most-children-prefer-ask-GOOGLE-question-parents.html#ixzz3Exb8KZk8

Zur, O. & Zur, A. (2011). On digital immigrants and digital natives: How the digital divide affects families, educational institutions, and the workplace. Zur Institute - Online Publication. Retrieved on Oct 2^nd, 2014, from http://www.zurinstitute.com/digital_divide.html

Edited on 9th Oct 2014.

Reader Response (Draft 4) "World Wakes Up to Digital Divide"

Wakefield (2010) reports that, countries around the world have started to take action in response to the digital divide. Research by International Telecommunications Union ( ITU) indicates that there is a greater difference between the most and least connected countries. In order to tackle the problem, Eastern European countries like Hungary have implemented a ‘Wi-Fi village’ program by providing Internet access as well as cheap recycled PCs to rural villagers. However, report author Sasha Meinrath argues that authorities should consider the ability of the citizens in utilizing network resources instead of just ‘making kit and access available’.

In my opinion, I do agree with Meinrath that citizen’s ability is important to maximize the benefits of broadband connectivity. However, countries should also consider their ability and the feasibility of technological investments before implementing policies in response to digital divide. These considerations are essential to prevent them from investing blindly just to narrow the so call “digital divide”.

Firstly, we know that in order to establish widespread internet connections, vast investments must come from either the country or certain corporations to cover the expenditures in terms of infrastructure. Hence, one should not disregard the significance of the country’s income level while considering the substantial needs for technology.  In the news article, ITU analyst Vanessa Gray points out that there is a correlation between a country's scale of digital divide and its economic status, but she seemed to underestimate the implication of the economic factor by stating that ‘being able to compare gives them the incentive to do better’. According to the data of The World Bank, Iceland is rated as the high income country with a gross national income per capita (GNI) of $12,746 or more, while Myanmar only possesses a GNI of $1,045 or less. The massive income disparity between both countries has a distinct effect on their ability to provide nationwide internet access. Therefore, when national interests are unable to fulfill the demand for connectivity, corporations take over the responsibility by providing sales of service for the communities. Nevertheless, this would also marginalize the low income families as people have to pay substantially more to get connected.

Furthermore, even though a country did have the ability to establish nationwide internet access, it is unfeasible to invest heavily in technology while neglecting other phases of development. For example, Wakefield mentions that Hungary has invested a substantial amount on the development of high speed fibre-optics cable, at the same time providing training for rural villagers. However, the Education at a Glance 2014 report by Organization for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) reveals that Hungary has serious weaknesses in education equity, challenging the government to retain and support their students in finishing their tertiary education. On the other hand, Hungary’s total expenditure on education institutions as a percentage of Gross Domestic Product(GDP) is only 4.4%, implying “the steepest decrease among all OECD countries” in year 2011. (OECD, 2014). The report also mentions that the level of education attainment has an evident effect on the unemployment rate of the people in Hungary. According to Okun’s Law, a decrease in the rate of employment will eventually cause a decrease in a country’s GDP. Therefore, the negligence of Hungary in the education sector should not be ignored as it may affect the country’s economy in long term basis.

As a conclusion, the policy makers play an important role in deciding the country’s direction of development and the future of the people. Hence, they should always consider realistic measures in terms of financial constraints and practicability instead of merely following the global trend.  

References

Organization for Economic Co-operation and Development. (2014). Education at a glance 2014- country note. Retrieved September 19, 2014, from http://www.oecd.org/edu/Hungary-EAG2014-Country-Note.pdf

The World Bank. (n.d.). Country and lending groups. Retrieved September 19, 2014, from http://data.worldbank.org/about/country-and-lending-groups

Wakefield, J. (2010). World wakes up to digital divide. Retrieved September 7, 2014, from http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/technology/8568681.stm

What Is the relationship between GDP and unemployment rates? (n.d.). Retrieved September 19, 2014, from http://www.wisegeek.com/what-is-the-relationship-between-gdp-and-unemployment-rates.htm

Digital Divide v/s Family Divide (Essay Draft 1)

Introduction

Alongside with the rapid development of the digital era, the global usage of Internet has exhibited an exponential growth within the past few decades. This trend is particularly evident among the younger generations. According to the Measuring the Information Society Report 2013 by International Telecommunication Union (ITU), Malaysia emerged as having the fourth-highest proportion of ‘digital natives’ in the world. On top of that, 90% of urban youths are using the internet. (Soh, Chew & Ang, 2008) Yet, when these ‘digital natives’, representing the group of Generation X and younger, stumble across the ‘digital immigrants’, specifically their parents, a family divide is formed.

This generational gap is not computed solely on the age, but also in terms of culture. Digital natives ‘speak and breathe the language of computers’ whereas for digital immigrants, dealing with technology is just not as easy as how the other group does. (Zur, O. & Walker, A, 2011). Zur and Walker (2011) also mention that this situation will eventually cause ‘misunderstandings, misperceptions, conflict, disharmony and communication breakdowns’. In order to narrow the family divide, the Ministry of Women, Family and Community Development should hold awareness campaigns and relevant counselling courses to help families to achieve a balance between technology management and family relationships.

Problem Identified

The Family Divide

First of all, the main impact of the divide towards family relationships is directed to the context of communication. Due to the infinite information that is available online, the kids are able to access any data that they are interested in. Hence, it contradicts with the traditional family culture where children will direct their curiosities to their parents. Rob Waugh (2012) mentions that, 54% of the 6 to 15 years old in America said that they tend to direct their questions to Google rather than their parents or teachers. This can be projected as a future issue in Malaysia as children are more dependent on Internet than earlier generations used to be.

On the other hand, the parents ‘struggle to gain proficiency and comfort’ towards the modern technology which their children are already well-versed in it. (Taylor, 2013) Therefore, when it comes to the issue of controlling the usage of internet, they could not exhibit a sense of authority towards their children with only nagging or even threatening about it. Children might perceive that the parents could not understand the importance of internet thus refuse to obey to the limitations. Conflicts are then created as both sides try to ground their stands without trying to understand each other’s considerations and anxiety. In short, technology not only leads to a diminishing interaction between parents and children, but it also intensifies the tension between parents and children.

Proposed Solutions

The Ministry of Women, Family and Community Development are responsible in expanding access of Information and Communication Technology (ICT) on woman, families and communities. Apart from focusing on the basic infrastructures to grant access of internet to families, the ministry should consider the social consequences such as the family divide due to different level of engagement in ICT. Awareness campaigns and relevant counselling courses to address such problem should be conducted.

Awareness Campaign

For example, in conjunction with the ministry’s effort to encourage the internet access within families, more concerns should be given to those digital immigrants in families who are avoiding the technology invasion. Those who are unwilling to adopt technology as part of their daily lives are more likely to have passive perceptions towards the benefits that are mentioned. Just as what Zur and Walker (2011) imply, the ‘avoiders’ could not see the value in the usage of internet. The ministry should consider approaching this target group by courteously exposing the benefits of internet through awareness campaigns. Publics are encouraged to bring along their family members to explore more about the impacts of family divide towards the family’s interaction. Information should be kept as simple as possible to prevent them from pulling out from the sharing of information due to message complexity.

Counselling Courses

Besides, the ministry can provide counselling services to parents who are apprehended towards the use of technology in the family. Strategies such as effective communication approaches can be highlighted to the parents so that they can communicate in a way that children are more willing to listen to. For instance, parents can learn how to communicate support to their children regarding the issue of internet usage but at the same time retaining their stand that excessive usage is unadvisable. Lansbury (2011) asserts that acknowledging, instead of judging or “fixing”, fosters trust and encourages children to keep sharing their feelings. With this particular methodology, the children will be less defensive in listening and therefore provide more space for them to communicate their anxiety and misunderstandings. The risks of conflicts will then be reduced as both sides are mentally prepared to sort out a win-win solution in this matter.

Conclusion

All in all, the issue of family divide deserves a more sophisticated approach as it includes elements of internal perception in response to the digital divide. From the group of ‘avoiders’ who tend to mentally resist the dominance of internet to the difference of perception within parents and children, all they need is just a sense of understanding on how they feel. To conclude, the Ministry of Women, Family and Community Development should comprehend this issue from a mentally perspective in order to solve this problem efficiently.

References

International Telecommunications Union. (2013). Measuring the information society. Retrieved on Oct 2^nd,2014, from  http://www.itu.int/en/ITU-D/Statistics/Documents/publications/mis2013/MIS2013_without_Annex_4.pdf

Lansbury. J. (2011). The key to your child’s heart (7 ways it works) . Retrieved on Oct 2^nd, 2014, from http://www.janetlansbury.com/2011/11/the-key-to-your-childs-heart-7-ways-it-works/

Ministry of Women, Family and Community Development. (n.d.). Strategies.  Retrieved on Oct 2^nd, 2014, from http://www.kpwkm.gov.my/strategi

Patrick C-H Soh, Yap Liang Yan, Tze San Ong & Boon Heng Teh. (2012). Digital Divide amongst Urban Youths in Malaysia – Myth or Reality?.Asian Social Science – Online Publication. Retrieved on Oct 2^nd, 2014, from http://www.ccsenet.org/journal/index.php/ass/article/view/22648

Taylor. J. (2013). Is Technology Creating a Family Divide?. Retrieved on Oct 2^nd, 2014, from http://www.psychologytoday.com/blog/the-power-prime/201303/is-technology-creating-family-divide

Waugh. R. (2012). Daddy no longer knows best? Most children would prefer to ask Google if they have a question - not their parents. Retrieved on Oct 2^nd, 2014, from http://www.dailymail.co.uk/sciencetech/article-2112223/Most-children-prefer-ask-GOOGLE-question-parents.html#ixzz3Exb8KZk8

Zur, O. & Zur, A. (2011). On Digital Immigrants and Digital Natives: How the Digital Divide Affects Families, Educational Institutions, and the Workplace. Zur Institute - Online Publication. Retrieved on Oct 2^nd, 2014, from http://www.zurinstitute.com/digital_divide.html.

Reader Response (Draft 3) "World Wakes Up to Digital Divide"

Wakefield (2010) implies that, countries around the world have started to take action in response to the digital divide. Research by International Telecommunications Union ( ITU) indicates that there is a greater difference between the most and least connected countries. In order to tackle the problem, Eastern European countries like Hungary have implemented a ‘Wi-Fi village’ program by providing Internet access as well as cheap recycled PCs to rural villagers. Moreover, certain countries like America have attempted to reach native communities which remain as a ‘barren desert’ by offering technical support in ‘specialised healthcare’. Wakefield also suggests that authorities should consider the ability of the citizens in utilizing network resources to maximize its benefits.

In my opinion, I do agree that the benefits of internet is unremarkable, however countries should consider its ability and the feasibility of such mass expenditure before implementing policies in response to digital divide. These considerations are essential to prevent them from investing blindly just to narrow the so call “digital divide”.

Firstly, we know that in order to establish widespread internet connections, a country has to invest a vast amount of money in terms of infrastructure. Hence, one should not disregard the significance of the country’s income level while considering the substantial needs for technology.  In the news article, ITU analyst Vanessa Gray points out that there is a correlation between a country's scale of digital divide and its economic status, but she seems to underestimate the implication of the economic factor by stating that ‘being able to compare gives them the incentive to do better’. According to the data of The World Bank, Iceland is rated as the high income country with a gross national income per capita (GNI) of $12,746 or more, while Myanmar only possesses a GNI of $1,045 or less. The massive income disparity between both countries has a distinct effect on their ability to provide nationwide internet access. It is obvious that Myanmar is just too poor and it is not practical for the government to invest in those costly communication infrastructures.

Furthermore, even though a country did have the ability to establish nationwide internet access, is it really feasible to invest heavily in technology while neglecting other phases of development? For example, Wakefield mentions that Hungary has invested a substantial amount on the development of high speed fibre-optics cable, at the same time providing training for rural villagers. However, the Education at a Glance 2014 report by Organization for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) reveals that Hungary has serious weaknesses in education equity, challenging the government to retain and support their students in finishing their tertiary education. On the other hand, Hungary’s total expenditure on education institutions as a percentage of Gross Domestic Product(GDP) is only 4.4%, implying “the steepest decrease among all OECD countries” in year 2011. (OECD, 2014). The report also mentions that the level of education attainment has an evident effect on the unemployment rate of the people in Hungary. According to Okun’s Law, a decrease in the rate of employment will eventually cause a decrease in a country’s GDP. Therefore, the negligence of Hungary in the education sector should not be ignored as it may affect the country’s economy in long term basis.

As a conclusion, the policy makers play an important role in deciding the country’s direction of development and the future of the people. Hence, they should always consider these realistic measures and make the most out of the countries’ income instead of merely following the global trend.

References:

Wakefield, J. (2010). World wakes up to digital divide. Retrieved September 7, 2014, from http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/technology/8568681.stm

The World Bank. (n.d.). Country and lending groups. Retrieved September 19, 2014, from http://data.worldbank.org/about/country-and-lending-groups

Organization for Economic Co-operation and Development. (2014). Education at a glance 2014- country note. Retrieved September 19, 2014, from http://www.oecd.org/edu/Hungary-EAG2014-Country-Note.pdf

What Is the relationship between GDP and unemployment rates? (n.d.). Retrieved September 19, 2014, from http://www.wisegeek.com/what-is-the-relationship-between-gdp-and-unemployment-rates.htm

Essay Outline

Main topic area:

Challenges for Malaysian teachers to fully embrace Information and Communication Technology(ICT) in teaching.

Main problem identified:

Some teachers who are not well versed in ICT will not be able to enhance effective learning processes within students.

Proposed solution:

Ministry of Education should implement training programs to ensure that teachers are equipped with basic IT knowledge.

Proposed Thesis

While taken into account that application of Information and Communication Technology (ICT) in teaching enhances students' effective learning process, the Ministry of Education should provide relevant training programs to make sure that the educators are up for the job.

Reader Response (Draft 2) "World Wakes Up to Digital Divide"

Wakefield (2010) implies that, countries around the world have started to take action in response to the digital divide. Research by International Telecommunications Union ( ITU) indicates that there is a greater difference between the most and least connected countries. In order to tackle the problem, Eastern European countries like Hungary have implemented a ‘Wi-Fi village’ program by providing Internet access as well as cheap recycled PCs to rural villagers. Moreover, certain countries like America have attempted to reach native communities which remain as a ‘barren desert’ by offering technical support in ‘specialised healthcare’. Wakefield also suggests that authorities should consider the ability of the citizens in utilizing network resources to maximize its benefits.

In my opinion, the increasing global awareness towards digital divide is an essential evolution. Alongside with the rapid development around the world, internet access had been declared as one of the modern 'basic necessities' by the young generation. However, it is only applicable to the 'developed countries'.

In the news article, ITU analyst Vanessa Gray points out that there is a correlation between a country's scale of digital divide and its economic status, but she seemed to underestimate the implication of the economic factor by stating that ‘being able to compare gives them the incentive to do better’. One should not disregard the significance of the country’s income level while considering the substantial needs for technology.  Comparing the developed and underdeveloped countries, the massive income disparity has a distinct effect on people's spending priorities. People in Iceland can afford to spend more to fulfil their desires apart from their needs. In contrast, people in Bangladesh may not even afford to feed themselves. When it comes to the issue of internet access, we can safely conclude that it is not practical for people in underdeveloped countries to invest in this certain aspect.

Besides, it is noted that Hungary has invested a substantial amount on the development of high speed fibre-optics cable, but at the same time it is 'traditionally lagged behind' in terms of economics compared to countries in the same continent. This shows that it may be hard for a country to achieve a well-balanced growth in all aspects and it depends on the government to decide its focus on a country’s development.  According to the statistics from Internet World Stats, a developing country such as Malaysia may not be considered as highly connected country with only 67% of internet penetration. However, the government did take the effort in providing higher education at lower costs for its people. The Hot Courses Abroad website states that the overall cost for a degree in Malaysia can start from as little as $2800. In the BBC article, the importance of education is further elevated as Sascha Meinrath mentions that, 'Providing books to everyone doesn't help those who cannot read in the first place.' If and only if the people possess the ability to utilize the network, then we can assure that they truly benefit from it. Hence, I support that the authorities should invest in terms on education which is more worthy rather that investing solely on the technology itself.

Maslow’s Theory of Needs implies that human are motivated to fulfill certain needs and they seek to fulfill the next one after one need is fulfilled. Hence, when the people cannot even satisfy their physiological needs, how can they afford to satisfy the technological needs? Moreover, even if they manage to acquire the infrastructure, it is also useless if they do not have the specific knowledge. As a conclusion, technological benefit is only beneficial when basic needs had been fulfilled while taken into account that humans are capable in making use of it. The authorities should keep this in mind rather than investing blindly just to narrow the so call "digital divide".

References:
Wakefield, J. (2010). World wakes up to digital divide. Retrieved September 7, 2014, from http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/technology/8568681.stm

Asia internet use, population data and facebook statistics. Retrieved September 12, 2014, from http://www.internetworldstats.com/stats3.htm

Comparing the costs of a degree overseas. Retrieved September 12, 2014, from http://www.hotcoursesabroad.com/study-abroad-info/student-finances/costs-of-education/

Mcleod, S. (2007). Maslow's hierarchy of needs. Retrieved September 12, 2014, from http://www.simplypsychology.org/maslow.html

Reader Response (Draft 1) "World Wakes Up to Digital Divide"

Wakefield (2010) implies that, countries around the world have started to take action in response to the digital divide. Research by International Telecommunications Union ( ITU) indicates that there is a greater difference between the most and least connected countries. In order to tackle the problem, Eastern European countries like Hungary have implemented a ‘Wi-Fi village’ program by providing Internet access as well as cheap recycled PCs to rural villagers. Moreover, certain countries like America have attempted to reach native communities which remain as a ‘barren desert’ by offering technical support in ‘specialised’ healthcare. However, authorities should also consider the ability of the citizens in utilizing network resources to maximize its benefits.

In my opinion, the increasing global awareness towards digital divide is an essential evolution. Alongside with the rapid development around the world, particularly the developed countries, internet access had been declared as one of the modern 'basic necessities' by the young generation. However, it is only applicable to the 'developed countries'.

In the news article, ITU analyst Vanessa Gray did point out that there is a correlation between a country's scale of digital divide and its economic status, but she seemed to underestimate the implication of the economic factor by stating that ‘being able to compare gives them the incentive to do better’. One should not disregard the significance of the country’s income level while considering the substantial needs for technology.  Comparing the developed and underdeveloped countries, the massive income disparity has a distinct effect on people's spending priorities. For example, people in Iceland can afford to spend more to fulfil their desires apart from their needs. On the contrary, people in Myanmar may not even afford to feed themselves. When it comes to the issue of internet access, we can safely conclude that it is not practical for people in underdeveloped countries to invest in this certain aspect, hence resulting in the digital divide.

The second issue is the different focus on a country’s development. It is noted that Hungary has 'traditionally lagged behind' in terms of economics compared to countries in the same continent despite its focus on the development of high speed fibre-optics cable. This shows that it is hard for a country to achieve a well-balanced growth in all aspects. Developing countries such as Malaysia are not considered as the highly connected countries, but the government did took the effort in providing higher education at lower costs for its people.  In the news article itself, report author Sascha Meinrath mention that, 'Providing books to everyone doesn't help those who cannot read in the first place.' If and only if the people possess the ability to utilize the network, then we can assure that they truly benefit from it.  In short, I believe that investing in terms of education is much more worthy compare to the technology itself.

Nevertheless, I do acknowledged the role of internet in worldwide connections. With internet access, global communities can communicate with each other without geographical restrictions. Besides that, online services such as internet banking and online shopping make life easier by saving a lot of unnecessary waiting time. Different job opportunities are also created throughout the virtual world, providing options for people to work from home. All in all, I agree that technology does benefits the community in various aspects of life. However, it will never bypass the substantial status of physiological needs which is a must for living. Technological benefit is only beneficial when basic needs had been fulfilled while taken into account that humans are capable in making use of it.

References:
Wakefield, J. (2010). World wakes up to digital divide. Retrieved September 7, 2014, from http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/technology/8568681.stm

Benefits of internet use. (n.d.). Retrieved September 7, 2014 from http://www.cyberethics.info/cyethics1/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=186&Itemid=83&lang=en

     

Summary (Digital Divide)

According to Wakefield (2010), countries around the world have started to take action in response to the digital divide. Research by International Telecommunications Union ( ITU) indicates that there is a greater difference between the most and least connected countries. In order to tackle the problem, Eastern European countries like Hungary have implemented a ‘Wi-Fi village’ program by providing Internet access as well as cheap recycled PCs to rural villagers. Moreover, certain countries like America have attempted to reach native communities which remain as a ‘barren desert’ by offering technical support in ‘specialised’ healthcare. However, authorities should also consider the ability of the citizens in utilizing network resources to maximize its benefits.   

D1 Summary

According to Leake and Warren (2009), researchers from Ohio State University implied that heavy Facebook users, particularly university students, tended to dedicate lesser time for their academic work. This in turn resulted in an adverse effect to their examination results and 'grade point average' compared to those who did not use Facebook.

Small things, Big difference.

There was once when I had a short conversation with my mother. It was about my neighbor's three-year old child. He was suffering from a high fever and his parents had to send him to the hospital. Our conversation was eventually drawn to my childhood stories, which I can hardly remember. My mom told me that I experienced the same situation a couple of years ago. Everyone was so worried as there had been myths claiming that high fever will cause brain damage.

However, the main issue that caught my attention was not the incident itself. Instead, it was my mother's expression when she explained the whole incident. I can still recall that she tended to blame herself for her negligence in taking care of me thus resulting in this incident. I was so touched at that moment but I chose to keep it to myself. 

This event had a huge impact on my perception of life for which I am now more appreciative towards everything, particularly to my parents. I used to put things off when my parents ask me to do house chores but now I will not hesitate to fulfill their request. I appreciate every single moment that we spent together although it was just part of the daily routine.

On the other hand, I always bear in mind that life is full of uncertainties. We can neither alter the past nor predict the future, hence what we can do is to appreciate the present. This pretty much concludes who I am today and I can foresee a better future with this mindset.          

Edited on 3rd of September.

My English Learning Journey

Before I start recalling my learning journey, please do allow me to do a brief introduction about myself. I am an ordinary Malaysian girl. My initial planning before I got the offer from NUS was just to stay in Malaysia and apply to the local universities. But I guess everything just turned out to be so different and now I am here in NUS.

To be honest, English had never been my first language back in Malaysia. I normally speak Mandarin with my parents and most of the subjects that I took during my pre-U were taught in Malay.I am not a big fan of English, so I find it pretty hard for me to build up the interest in reading English novels like what my peers usually did. Although we do have our own Malaysian University English Test (MUET), and I managed to score a Band 5, which is 220/300 marks, I know that I still have more to learn especially in terms of essay writing.  

Hence I was really worried when I knew that I will be studying in NUS, such a prestigious university with English as the main communicating language. So, I end up regretting that I should have pushed myself harder before I came here. After I sat for my Qualifying English Test, I got Band 2, for me I was really grateful as I expect that I might be getting Band 1 instead. I think some of you still remember that I considered myself introvert due to my limitations in language, which is really a main concern for me.  

However, I am glad to have the chance to study ES1102. Although I just attended the first class but I do feel relaxed and I look forward to attending the remaining classes. Hopefully after 12 week’s ‘training’, then I will be able to upgrade my language skills and also to meet new friends. I believe that it is never too late to start a journey and I feel lucky to have everyone in ES1102 as my companion. Let’s embark on this journey together and we shall see our changes throughout the whole process.

Edited on 2nd September 2014.