Page 483 - Computer Science V2.0 Class 11

Cultural Changes
Technology has fundamentally changed our culture. People used to talk to each other at religious meetings in the
past, but these days, even religious meetings are moving online, making it harder for people to meet in person. Even
some marriages have been formalised online. People use their computers, tablets, or phones to spend time with their
friends. Nowadays, headphones are preferred to open ears for listening to music. People would rather shop online
than at a store near them, which hurts small businesses. Reduced human interaction has led to loneliness, which may
lead to minor to severe depression.
15.11.3 Gender and Disability Issues in IT Education

Gender Issues
Women have reduced access to IT services and IT education, for reasons of preconceived notions, lack of motivation,
and lack of role models.

Preconceived Notions
There is an unsubstantiated belief in some sections of the society that the boys are better at technical things while
girls are better at humanities, arts, and so on. Further, the girls should pursue a career like teaching that requires fewer
hours at work so that they can focus on family.

Lack of Motivation
During the early years, children often play games on computers and smartphones. Since many of the games are geared
toward boys, they introduce gender bias at a young age.

Lack of Role Models

Girls see fewer women as IT leaders who could be their role models. It impacts their decision about the choice of
discipline.

Disability Issues
Lack of suitable instructional materials designed to meet the needs of the students with disabilities adversely impacts the
teaching and learning process. Different types of instructional aids or materials are required for students with various
disabilities. For example, students who are blind or have low vision may need Braille keyboards, Braille monitors, and
Braille printers in addition to screen readers when working on computers. Software assistants like Google Assistant,
Microsoft Narrator, and Cortana, as well as custom text editors, would be useful for visually impaired students.
Students who are deaf or hard of hearing may need more visual input than verbal. The schools do not typically
provide these facilities for reasons of financial constraints or a lack of appreciation for the specialised needs. Further,
the educational institutes need to train the teachers to handle the students with special needs. For example, a
hearing-impaired student needs a teacher who can communicate in sign language.

Give two examples of:
1. E-waste management techniques.
2. Social problems encountered due to technology.
3. Reasons for girls not taking up technical subject in higher education.
4. Software assistants to help students with disabilities.

Society, Law and Ethics 469