The principles of minimal computing encourage us to carefully consider our technology choices and usage. Minimal computing advocates doing the most with the least, prioritizing sustainability, equity, and empowerment. To put these principles into practice, I’ve drafted some questions to critically examine our own technology use. I would greatly appreciate any feedback on these questions…
In recent years, “minimal computing” has emerged as an approach to digital humanities scholarship that favors simplicity, sustainability, and accessibility. Minimal computing encourages asking key questions like “What do we need?” and “What can we do with what we have?” rather than getting caught up in the latest trends or tools. At its core, minimal…
In her insightful book Weapons of Math Destruction, mathematician and data scientist Cathy O’Neil exposes how algorithms and big data can perpetuate inequality and erode democracy. As algorithms increasingly run our lives, this is an important book for understanding their unintended consequences. Weapons of Math Destruction explores how algorithms are being used to make important…
Educational technology continues to advance at a rapid pace, bringing exciting new possibilities into the classroom. Chatbots, virtual reality, and AI-powered tutors promise to revolutionize learning. But, in our eagerness to embrace the latest innovations, are we approaching them with a critical eye? As educators, we must carefully consider not only what we could do…
In my recent review of Noah Hawley’s novel Anthem, I touched on some powerful themes that the book explores, including mental health issues in youth, trauma’s lingering impacts, and the importance of human connection in healing societal rifts. These themes all relate to the vital quality of empathy. As Hawley’s dystopian tale suggests, practicing empathy…
The commonplace book, a collection of passages and quotations organized by theme or topic, has long been a key tool for scholars and thinkers. From the Renaissance through the 19th century, learned figures kept these books to store bits of knowledge, apt quotes, or observations for later retrieval and use. The art of selecting and…
Quick Summary Noah Hawley’s latest novel Anthem offers a disturbing yet captivating vision of a near-future America plagued by political strife, climate disaster, and teenage suicide. Published in January 2022, the book has garnered attention for its timely themes and fast-paced, cinematic storytelling. In this review, I will give a quick plot overview, an extended…
Quick Summary In White Fragility, Robin DiAngelo explains that white people are insulated from racial stress because we live in a society that caters to white people as the norm. This builds our expectations for racial comfort, causing defensiveness and hostility when we are confronted with the reality of racism. DiAngelo examines topics like white…
In an era of misinformation and polarization, developing strong information and media literacy skills has become imperative. These skills allow us to critically analyze content, evaluate sources, and make informed choices about how we consume and engage with media. As educators explore ways to improve media literacy education, examining the intersections with broader socio-economic factors…
The rapid development of artificial intelligence (AI) poses exciting possibilities as well as ethical challenges. As AI systems become more sophisticated and integrated into our lives, ensuring they align with human values and interests becomes imperative. But how can we achieve this goal? Alignment refers to developing AI that behaves in accordance with the preferences,…