Technology Essay

2430 Words5 Pages

Technology is the way which extends humans ability. It is very difficult to obtain a precise definition of technology. It is generally accepted that "technology" is more than just a collection of physical products of science. "Technology" is the link between society and its tools. The creation of computer software and hardware, telecommunications, databases, and the Internet has affected society as a whole, and particularly higher education by giving people new productivity options and changing the way they work (Hulbert, 1998). In the so-called "Information Age" the increasing use of technology has become the driving force in the way people work, learn, and play (Drake, 2000). As this force evolves, the people using technology change also (Nelson, 1990). Adapting to technology is not simple. Some people tend to embrace change while others resist change (Wolski & Jackson, 1999). Before making a decision on whether to embrace technology or not, people may look at the practical and social consequences of accepting change. Technology changes the way people work and learn. As the role of technology is being defined and is constantly being improved, change is inevitable (Davis-Millis, 1998; Brand, 2000). As a result, those involved in higher education have to find ways to adapt to technological change. Administrators, faculty, academic librarians, and students should define the role of technology for the purposes of (1) sharing new ideas and techniques for teaching and learning; (2) encouraging enthusiasm and innovativeness; and (3) learning about opportunities and challenges, and how to deal with them (Landsberger, 2001). Literature Review The term “stress” has multiple meanings. As Richard Lazarus stated in his 1966 book “Psycho... ... middle of paper ... ...tions are made in the light of the findings from the study survey outlined in these articles. Library managers should organize technology-based training for librarians in order to make them comfortable with new technologies and more aware of their dangers. Since technology skills are important part of most library and information jobs, librarians should make sure they acquire technological skills continuously. University libraries should employed qualified information and technology specialist and troubleshooters to maximize system accessibility and provide a level of comfort to the librarians. Positive attitude towards computers and sensible coping management strategies will ease technostress and benefit. If such recommendations are followed, librarians in university libraries will look forward to being able to work in a technological stress free environment.

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