Current Trends

Identify a current technology that has emerged in the last few years that shapes learning or productivity in your industry. 

One technology that has been increasing prevalent within my organization is the use of the tablet.  Many of our company’s managers and increasingly other employees are carrying iPads and other tablets.  They are gaining popularity due to their high portability and ease of use.  Many people are using them to take notes during meetings but also have easy access to company email and other applications.

What problems or challenges have been associated with this technology? 

The biggest challenge has been creating a wireless network that will support the devices.  These devices often require a different type of authentication to gain access to our network.  Another challenge has been finding technicians with higher levels of experience who are able to troubleshoot problems on the devices.

What societal need does it meet, and what are its benefits? 

The biggest need being met is of both ease of use and portability.  The primary benefit is that it can do many of the things a typical laptop can do but without having to carry a laptop around.

What would make this technology even better, avoiding the pitfalls you identified? 

Being able to lower the cost of production thus lowering the cost of the product would help to make it more accessible to those who cannot afford it.

The link below discusses the differences between a tablet and a laptop

http://wickeddigital.blogspot.com/2013/02/tablet-vs-laptop-which-is-better.html

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