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New columnist wires in to the digital world By Michael C. Guilmette Jr. Originally published on Jan. 15, 2004, in the Bay Mills News.
It occurred to me as she was anxiously reaching for the keyboard that this little girl would never know a world without the Internet. I am sure that she will realize that there was a time without the convenience of diverse information instantly available at her fingertips, but she will not be able to grasp what it was like, much like most of my generation can not imagine a world without telephones and televisions. For better or for worse, the Internet is here to stay. But despite its explosive growth over the last decade, despite the dependency that millions have placed upon it for communication and information gathering, and despite the now integral part the Internet plays in our lives and culture, this system of inter-connected networks is still in its infancy. Now, I don’t make claims to the Internet’s embryonic state because there are millions of people around the world that don’t yet have access, or because much of the technology that makes it work is expensive or experimental, or even because it has not yet reached its full potential. All these things are true. But, I believe that the most telling sign of the Internet’s youth is that so many of us still look at it as a novelty. Many would argue with this assertion, saying that the Internet is not a fad and that it is a necessary part of many people’s lives. While I will agree with these notions, I find that many people seem to put the Internet up a pedestal. I often chuckle at how proud people can be when they post their first Web page to the electronic annals, even though this task is simple when compared to the effort it takes to get the same information printed in a newspaper or broadcast on television. When I posted my first primitive Web page online in 1994, I was simply geeked, so I really do understand the thrill. The problems that come in with the novelty and corresponding naiveté about the Internet is that many people will assign to it capabilities that it may not have and, at the same time, will not be aware of some of the simple tips, tricks and traps that can make their Internet experience better — or worse. To that end, this column will attempt to shed light on the many issues that surround the Internet and related electronic communication media. I will discuss the new problems and opportunities that have arisen since the information age began, as well as discussing the old ideas — and scams and shams — that have found a new home online. So, keep on the lookout for this dialog, and prepare yourself as we look forward to our future, wiring in to our digital world. • Mike Guilmette is a staff reporter/columnist with the Bay Mills News. His website can be seen at http://www.sigperl.com/. |
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Copyright © 2004, Michael C. Guilmette Jr. |
A few weeks back, I was firmly ensconced in front of a computer merrily surfing the Internet, when my 18-month old niece Hailey began tugging at my leg wanting to be picked up. Now, I’d like to think that she came over because she wanted to see her favorite Uncle Mikey, but truth be told, she wanted to press buttons.
