Life in the Network

I think each individual defines the definition of access. My parents, for example, are retired and were hooked up with the Internet (my sister did it for them). For them, it was purely entertainment. My mom tried to do some genealogy but became frustrated with the cost of software. The few packages she purchased proved to be useless. She tried to find people in Europe to email for help but found very few had access to the Internet. For her, it was easier to spend a day at the Historical Society or writing letters (the old fashion way) to people for her information and documents. My dad on the other hand, would play solitaire and read jokes from his siblings in the evening. But once the weather was nice, the computer was never turned on. It was a lifestyle choice, as the Pew survey defines this action. They have physical access and are technologically literate but chose not to connect to the Internet.

“The common perception of the timid older Internet user is quite accurate, even for relative newcomers to the ranks of seniors� (Wired Seniors, Pew, 1) is an accurate portrayal of the majority of seniors I know that get wired. They start out brave. But, once a virus hits the computer, they get defensive, frustrated, and paranoid. They become nervous about any updates and therefore, do not keep up on the security software updates. More viruses and more frustration lead to limited use and comfort of their computers and Internet activity. My parents eventually fell into this endless loop. They did not perform their due diligence and secure their computer.

When I purchased my Mac, the Apple Store said they actually sell a large percentage of computers to seniors (in the opinion of one salesperson in the store). Seniors like it for the graphics and projects they do (apparently life documentation is very trendy now.) So, the population is changing as more seniors hop on the Internet wagon. Hopefully they will put into place the security safeguards just as they do with telemarketers on the phone.

In my opinion, access for a younger person is more than having the physical access. Most positions require computer literacy and experience. Without this, a young person (immigrant or not) could miss out on a potential opportunity for employment. Many positions though discourage employees from using the Internet during work hours. To get more experience and comfort, the person needs to have access to a computer and Internet to explore and practice skills. The PEW survey (Internet Penetration & Impact) found 35% of people found that the Internet helped them do their job better (up from 20%). If job performance is up, the chances for salary increase or promotions increase. Lower-income families can advance their standard of life. Many of the community college courses geared toward novice users are helpful – especially when the cost is low and the class offerings to accommodate a working schedule (Ever-Shifting Internet Population PEW, pgs 11, 34). Opportunities should be available to those adults (or children) who want or need education on computers (Internet).

I personally am an “intermittent user� (PEW) and only use the Internet for work and classes. Once the semester is over, my laptop is rarely turned on. I don’t feel I need to be online to have a successful or fulfilling life. I would much rather be doing something physical than sitting at my computer. If I wasn’t at my computer all day, I might be of a different opinion. Since I sit for eight to ten hours, I’d rather be doing something else. Maybe I should get one of those computers that mount on a treadmill? Hmmmm…