Reading/ Thoughts: Jon Crowcroft

Name: Chelsie Suttell             Class time: 11 AM

KEEP THIS TO 1-2 – PAGES LONG

Title of Article: On the Nature of Computing

Author: Jon Crowcroft

Date of Publication: February 2005

Book: Communications of the ACM

1.     Tell three interesting elements of this article: (Knowledge)

a.       Computing is a completely different style of life.

b.       Computing can be used to create an artificial life.

c.       The only limitation of computing is the imagination of its creator.

2.     What is the main issue being discussed within this article? (Comprehension)

The main issue being discussed in this article is that computing is almost like a totally different world.  Anything and everything can be created through computing.

3.     What is an example of this type of problem/similar situation that you have experienced – be specific? (Application)

An example of this situation is when my friends and I created a fake MySpace to spy on a boyfriend.  It was all in good fun, but it just goes to show how easy an artificial life can be created through the Internet.  We were able to access pictures from where ever we wanted and created a girl who was totally artificial.  We created all fake information to make the girl seem realistic.

4.     Address all that apply. How can you compare this situation to something that does not relate to computers, technology, or the Internet? What ideas NEW can you add to the issue that is being presented within the reading? (Analysis)

I don’t really know how to compare this issue without using computers, technology, or internet, but a new idea that I can add to the issue is that computing can and is used to unite the whole entire world and it links every citizen of every country to each other in some way.

5.     Address all that apply. Do you agree with what is being said within the article (Why/Why not)?  What new conclusions can you draw about this (or other topics) after reading this material? (Synthesis)

I do agree with what is said in the article because I believe that the Internet is like another world.  I conclude from this article that the Internet has absolutely no limits. Anything and everything can be created through computing and it is amazing.

6.     Address all that apply. Judge whether or not this topic is relevant in today’s society? Evaluate why you are viewing the topic in this manner based on your experiences. What new choices/decisions will you make after reading this article? Explain. (Evaluation)

This topic is most definitely relevant in today’s society especially because of face book and MySpace. Both of those are examples of computing and building and creating lives.  I am more aware that anyone can access information about me through computing because there are absolutely no limits to it.