Unit 7: Digital Access
Value: This unit is valued at 20pts.
Meaning: The FULL electronic participation of society
It is hard to imagine places on Earth not having access to the internet when you are using your computer at home with smartphone and tablet also within reach but places like this exist. In fact, some homes just down the street from you can't afford to have internet access because they've had to make the choice to spend on food and heating instead. Providing internet access to every home and person is a goal of our New Brunswick government but also governments around the world. In activity 1 you will examine a country who until recent years has been living in the internet stone-age and you will see how great the divide really is.
The Issues:
Equal access for all people
Access for people with special needs
Access for people at work, school and at home
Is access to the internet a human right?
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Activity #1 - Open the door to Ecuador (12pts)
Ecuador is a South American country that had fallen very behind in the internet age until recently. You will read about their remarkable vision and leadership and answer some questions about digital access raised in this interesting news story.
Then answer these questions and submit them to your teacher.
1. How does Ecuador make most of their income now and in the future how would they like to make their income? (2)
2. What does ICT stand for? (1)
3. If Ecuador increases their connection to the internet what are 2 possible advantages they will have compared to their neighboring countries? (2)
4. What are "Infocentros" and do you think these would work in New Brunswick or are we too far beyond this strategy? (2)
5. Why is the city of Yachay important and what main courses are being taught at the University of Yachay? (2)
6. After reading the story of Ecuador what do you think about their efforts over the last few years to become independent and a leader in science and technologies? Will it work out well for Ecuador and should New Brunswick consider a similar vision and goal? Why? (3)
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Activity 2: Privacy Please (8pts)
Much of our lives and our personal information is stored digitally somewhere on a server. Hospitals could use your medical information to increase the speed and accuracy of care for you but many more people would have accees to your information.
Activity: Make an argument for and against the following two situations. Argue for it using facts and your knowledge of right and wrong and then argue against it. Each statement should be brief (3-4 points or sentences) and should provide references for supporting materials you choose to use.
1. Our medical records should be all digitally stored online for all medical professionals to access within the hospital when needed. (4)
2. Voting should be done 100% online for both provincial and federal elections starting in 2017. (4)
(Argue for and against both of the situations above.)
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Extend your learning with a third situation (optional)
- School report cards and daily attendance should be digital and passwords should be issued for parents to log in and check results.
- Schools in 2020 should be closed and teachers and students should begin learning in virtual classrooms using digital technology at home.
- Digital textbooks should replace entirely paper textbooks by 2020 in New Brunswick.