Читать книгу The Movement and Technology Balance - Traci Lengel - Страница 20

The evolution of influential technology is represented by the less than symbol (<). This character illustrates the initial impact of technology in the past (the pointed end) along with its growth and future possibilities (the infinite, wide end) as we look ahead. In Figure 1.2, an undisputable timeline of growth is represented with technology inventions, advances, and devices. Computers, video games, laptops, and cell phones were the first to arrive on the market. At first, these products came with a hefty price tag, limiting sales to those who had the financial means to purchase them. Eventually, prices were lowered, and more people were able to afford these creations. In 1990, the World Wide Web was developed and global communications and networking became readily accessible.

The early 1990s brought about PlayStation, Yahoo, and smartphones. Many believe that PlayStation redefined gaming as sales skyrocketed and numbers climbed. Cell phones became multifunctioning devices, and people began to use them as personal planners. Technology was becoming as much a part of social fabric as it was in the world of business. From 1995 to 1997, Amazon, eBay, Hotmail, Java, WebTV, Google, and blogging hit the scene. Technology seemed to be growing at an unstoppable rate. Online shopping was a novelty that provided a desired convenience to the overworked consumer who had limited time.

Figure 1.2 ■ The Evolution of Influential Technology <

From 2000 to 2006, noticeable attention was directed toward social media outlets such as Myspace, Skype, Facebook, and Twitter. It seemed as though there was a need for social networking opportunities, and technology was ready to respond. Communication was being revised. Face-to-face conversations were decreasing and online chatting, texting, and tweeting were becoming the norm. Gaming inventions were also escalating as PlayStation2, Xbox, Xbox 360, and PlayStation 3 were advancing and increasing persistently. We were quickly becoming a society consumed with technological uses and advancements. Before we knew what had happened, much of our society became engrossed in digital devices. Today, our devices frequently serve as a distraction as we attempt to focus on “old-fashioned” notions such as verbal communication, listening, and physical activity. Out with the old and in with the new. But what if the new is detrimental to the health, overall happiness, and survival of the people it serves?