There was a section in chapter 1 of "New Media: An Introduction" that stood out to me and really got me thinking. When discussing convergence in terms of the interlinking of technology, communication networks and content, Terry Flew mentions something that I really hadn't thought about before. He mentions that it is so important for us to be aware of how communication is mediated by technology, or rather, how technology influences our behaviour. Flew discusses that we need to study the devices themselves, how they extend out ability communicate, and the social arrangements and organizations that form around these devices and practices.
In class the other day, Dr. Strangelove mentioned that we're only half aware of what we're doing in terms of how the physicality of new media is changing. One behaviour that really sticks out in my mind is how so many people are guilty of texting and walking. This faux pas is something that is relatively new with the introduction of SMS in mobile phones. I see it all the time on campus, people not being aware of where they're going and end up bumping into other people or tripping on a crack in the sidewalk.
Instead of being mentally and physically aware of where your're walking to, texting while walking affects your ability to manoeuvre through a crowd or to avoid the vehicle that's running a red light while you're in the crosswalk. It's to the point that people are being seriously injured.
Instead of being mentally and physically aware of where your're walking to, texting while walking affects your ability to manoeuvre through a crowd or to avoid the vehicle that's running a red light while you're in the crosswalk. It's to the point that people are being seriously injured.
This poor girl just takes texting and walking to a new extreme. Try to contain your laughter!
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