by Mariah Muchow, staff
Computers, cellphones, cameras- technology is all around us. Nowadays, almost any daily task requires some form of modern technology. With these newfound tools, there certainly comes a number of advantages, but there also comes the need for proper care to ensure these technologies stay running and working properly.
“On a regular basis, I use my phone and TV daily. During the school year, I use my computer almost daily to complete homework. Technology benefits me significantly when I’m trying to do school or creating projects. I would most likely not be at the level I am without the internet. I find it incredible how convenient it is to access information when I need to look something up,” Sam Teigen (11) said.
Cellphones have a small size that proves them to be a powerful and convenient tool that provides a source of communication and knowledge at almost anytime. That small size also makes it prone to easy loss or clumsiness that could cause significant damage to the device. Cellphones also require the need for charging on a regular basis, or else they will die and be of no use.
In school, and in many other workplaces, computers are a major technology used. Once again, they allow for communication, this time often via email, as well as prove to be an advanced digital workspace. Computers are less likely to get lost as they are much bigger than cellphones, but they are still pretty portable and light, making them prone to damage due to clumsiness or carelessness. It’s important to make sure that the computer is being held properly: one hand on the bottom and one hand supporting the screen. Using laptops on level surfaces is also recommended.
While cellphones and computers are more casual, widespread examples of modern technologies that many possess, there are also some technologies that are more niche, but just as helpful to the people who use them. For example, in journalism and photography, digital cameras prove to be an incredibly useful tool that can visually capture important moments.
These cameras require special care to ensure proper function and durability. The camera must be held and anchored properly at all times. It should be set down on a level surface, or if being held by an individual, the neckband should be around the neck. Lenses should either be placed on the camera or have appropriate lens covers on and stay safely stowed in the camera case.
Teigen recounted how she demonstrated improper camera care, resulting in damage to a camera lens.
“Probably the biggest technology mishap I’ve had is when I dropped a DSLR camera lens into a pond. During Journalism Camp this last summer, we traveled to the Fish Hatchery in Spearfish for some photo ops,” Teigen said. “As I pulled my camera out of its case to take photos, the extra lens that remained was too heavy. Because I left the case unlatched, it flipped over, and due to the weight of the lens, fell out, bounced off the bridge and finally landed in the water. Unfortunately, I am now burdened with the replacement of this lens. I feel like I’m a good example of what not to do.”
While everyone can likely benefit from modern technology to some degree, it’s important to remember that there needs to be a level of care provided to the devices to ensure they stay intact to function properly.
