Technology use

There are many different forms of technology which can be used for a variety of different reasons and purposes.

• What are some ways technology is used?
• Why do people use technology?
• What are some things you have noticed about technology use?

Brainstorm different types of technology, media texts, and online platforms.

Record your ideas using a method of your choice.

Research and explore

Technology has shaped and changed the way information may be accessed, as well as provided various advancements in healthcare, the automotive industry, communication changes, and more!

Technology has also altered how media texts may be accessed, and by adding an online platform, additional forms of media texts have been created.

Some examples of online media texts include:

• Websites
• Blogs
• Social media posts
• Videos (interviews, cartoons, television programs, movies, music videos, films, movie trailers, sports programs, documentaries, video platforms,etc.)
• Ebooks
• Podcasts
• Online magazines, and newspapers
• Digital advertisements
• Email
• Online brochures
• Interactive software
• Multimedia text
• Databases

Different online media texts and resources have been created for a specific intended audience.

• What are some examples of media texts that might appeal to Grade 8 students?
• Why might this be the case?
• How is the media text designed for its intended audience?

Record your ideas using a method of your choice.

Research the use of technology and online media texts. Record your findings in a format of your choice. Use the following questions to help guide your research.

Consider:

• What are the different reasons people may be accessing/using technology?
• What are some different ways media texts are used (consider why someone would read an article or explore a video?)
• Who is accessing these different media texts? What are some trends you notice?
• Has the development of technology been beneficial? Why or why not?

Select one online media text and identify the purpose and target audience.

• What is the media text used for?
• Who is the target audience? How do you know?
• Is the media text important? Why?

Connecting to your research

Use the following questions to make connections to your research. Record your responses using a method of your choice.

Reflect: Analyze your findings and reflect on your thinking.

• Was there anything that surprised you in your research?
• Was there anything in the research that resonated with your thinking on media texts and technology use?
• What has been your experience with technology and/or media texts?
• Why is technology significant and how can we continue to use technology in the future? Explain your thinking.

Reflection

As you read the following descriptions, select the one that best describes your current understanding of the learning in this activity. Press the corresponding button once you have made your choice.

Now, expand on your ideas by recording your thoughts using a voice recorder, speech-to-text, or writing tool.

When you review your notes on this learning activity later, reflect on whether you would select a different description based on your further review of the material in this learning activity.