TakingITGlobal - Panorama - Global Networks

Published on: Nov 12, 2000

Topic:

Type: Opinions

https://www.tigweb.org/express/panorama/article.html?ContentID=1

When we talk about people not having access to technology or to the resources that really empower people to take advantage of the opportunities and possibilities of the new economy, what does "access" really mean? Is it about the wires, gadgets, computer screens and hard drives? Or is it about the programs, applications and relevant content? Probably both. However one major misconception is that the true value of "technology" is in the technology itself, as opposed to the innovation, application and human interaction that is integrated with the whole experience. With this notion in mind, we must ask ourselves how much value we place on advancing humanity as a whole, as opposed to pursuing individual selfish needs. It is due to our interdependence, our eco-system and our ever-changing global economy that allow us to function as a whole. Damage to one part of the system will affect the functionality and strength of the rest. Let us consider the possibilities.Imagine being part of a global movement for peace where the next generations of leaders are exposed to the knowledge, information and resources they need to collaborate and work together as a global community… On a smaller scale, imagine helping to affect change within one individual, who has the vision to create great things, but is restricted by an environment that does not foster an attitude of optimism, initiative, determination or confidence. If you could shed light on the resources and inspiration required for people to move from feeling left out, to being brought into a new world of opportunity and connectivity, then would you be able to recognize and appreciate the value of your efforts? The question is how? Perhaps the whole "think global, act local" concept applies when you want to affect change as an individual. But when we ask ourselves how to increase access on a universal level, it should be up to individuals, organizations, corporations and governments to work together in building solutions.The key is taking initiative to get things started! There are many efforts attempting to solve similar problems, but true communication and collaboration still feels weak. I am working with Michael Furdyk on a project aimed at bringing young people together from around the world, to collaborate on projects that integrate technology, with issues and content truly relevant to them. The goal is to help foster the emerging skills that are required for success in the new economy, some being technological fluency, entrepreneurship, communication and collaboration. Through our own efforts, we are finding that there are many people out there working towards similar goals, but are doing things in different ways. A question I keep asking myself is "how can we work together?" and "how can others who feel passionate about similar issues be connected to each other more easily?" One lesson that I've learned is the value of networking, and sharing stories. When you are able to really put yourself out there, and let others know more about you, your dreams, struggles and successes, while at the same time being receptive and open to their stories, relationships form and things almost start to fall into place.What does this have to do with reducing the gap between "the haves" and the "have nots"? EVERYTHING! The "haves" have a support system; a network of people where they can grow their ideas, develop skills, and create opportunities! This "system" manifests itself in different ways for different people, and they key is realizing the value in creating one for yourself, and inviting others to join as they build their own for themselves. Getting more teens connected globally is not just about getting people on-line, it's about what happens when they get there. It's about the interaction and collaboration that takes place when there are no real boundaries. My dream is to help people realize this potential, and I hope to achieve this through the process of growing the TakingITGlobal network of people, resources and opportunities.

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by Jennifer Corriero
Published on: Nov 12, 2000
Topic:
Type: Opinions
https://www.tigweb.org/express/panorama/article.html?ContentID=1


When we talk about people not having access to technology or to the resources that really empower people to take advantage of the opportunities and possibilities of the new economy, what does "access" really mean? Is it about the wires, gadgets, computer screens and hard drives? Or is it about the programs, applications and relevant content? Probably both. However one major misconception is that the true value of "technology" is in the technology itself, as opposed to the innovation, application and human interaction that is integrated with the whole experience. With this notion in mind, we must ask ourselves how much value we place on advancing humanity as a whole, as opposed to pursuing individual selfish needs. It is due to our interdependence, our eco-system and our ever-changing global economy that allow us to function as a whole. Damage to one part of the system will affect the functionality and strength of the rest. Let us consider the possibilities.Imagine being part of a global movement for peace where the next generations of leaders are exposed to the knowledge, information and resources they need to collaborate and work together as a global community… On a smaller scale, imagine helping to affect change within one individual, who has the vision to create great things, but is restricted by an environment that does not foster an attitude of optimism, initiative, determination or confidence. If you could shed light on the resources and inspiration required for people to move from feeling left out, to being brought into a new world of opportunity and connectivity, then would you be able to recognize and appreciate the value of your efforts? The question is how? Perhaps the whole "think global, act local" concept applies when you want to affect change as an individual. But when we ask ourselves how to increase access on a universal level, it should be up to individuals, organizations, corporations and governments to work together in building solutions.The key is taking initiative to get things started! There are many efforts attempting to solve similar problems, but true communication and collaboration still feels weak. I am working with Michael Furdyk on a project aimed at bringing young people together from around the world, to collaborate on projects that integrate technology, with issues and content truly relevant to them. The goal is to help foster the emerging skills that are required for success in the new economy, some being technological fluency, entrepreneurship, communication and collaboration. Through our own efforts, we are finding that there are many people out there working towards similar goals, but are doing things in different ways. A question I keep asking myself is "how can we work together?" and "how can others who feel passionate about similar issues be connected to each other more easily?" One lesson that I've learned is the value of networking, and sharing stories. When you are able to really put yourself out there, and let others know more about you, your dreams, struggles and successes, while at the same time being receptive and open to their stories, relationships form and things almost start to fall into place.What does this have to do with reducing the gap between "the haves" and the "have nots"? EVERYTHING! The "haves" have a support system; a network of people where they can grow their ideas, develop skills, and create opportunities! This "system" manifests itself in different ways for different people, and they key is realizing the value in creating one for yourself, and inviting others to join as they build their own for themselves. Getting more teens connected globally is not just about getting people on-line, it's about what happens when they get there. It's about the interaction and collaboration that takes place when there are no real boundaries. My dream is to help people realize this potential, and I hope to achieve this through the process of growing the TakingITGlobal network of people, resources and opportunities. « return.