Angie Smith's Information Facet Response

What have you learned in your CAS class that is useful in the Information facet of IST?

During a typical Information class, the first half hour is spent discussing the readings and our different interpretations. After we have all shared our viewpoints, Dr. Jansen assigns a group project, which must be completed and submitted by the end of class. In our first class, I was worried about how little time we had to brainstorm and organize our ideas. Once we began to talk, however, I realized that CAS had prepared us well for this type of high-pressure scenario. Thanks to our “norm” and “role” readings, we each understood our function in the discussion and were able to constructively share ideas and respond to each group member’s input (Ratzburg 1). We also finished our group project before time had expired, because we knew how to run an efficient group meeting (“Six Tips for More Effective Meetings” 1).

What have you learned in the Information facet that is useful in group communication?

The Information facet of IST 110 is very different than the Technology facet. During class, we focus on the abstract questions of why technology exists or how information can be managed to improve life, rather than complicate or even destroy our fragile modern society. Such questions do not have definite answers. Solutions can only be reached when many individuals work together and share their unique perspectives. Understanding the power of groups in shaping the future and interpreting the present has helped me to see the benefits of group communication. When my group meets to discuss our Amish relief project, I can clearly see that by working independently we would not be able to accomplish what we can as a group.
What examples from your group's interaction are relevant to an Information perspective?
In the Information facet, class discussions focus on individual’s interpretation of information. We spend a great deal of time during each class sharing ideas and opinions on readings or other information-based topics. The numerous group meetings I attend each week have prepared me for these types of interactions, because I am now used to disagreeing with my peers in a way which does not promote ill-feelings or heated altercations. The classroom should be a safe place to discuss differences and working closely with a group on a regular bases has made me more comfortable in this type of environment.

How do you think what you have learned in the Information facet will affect your future career?

As Vannevar Bush questioned in his article As We May Think, “Of what lasting benefit has been man's use of science and of the new instruments which his research brought into existence (Bush 1)?” This is a question without an answer, but it is a question that will shape my future. In an information technology career, I will be working with the newest technology, helping to integrate it into the life of the modern person. In order to effectively accomplish this task, I will not only need to understand how the technology works, but also why it is necessary. The Information facet of IST 110 has helped me to ponder the greater demand for information and how technology can fulfill this need.

Works-Cited

Bush, Vennevar. “As We May Think.” The Atlantic Monthy. 1995. Simon Fraser
University. 22 October 2006 <https://cms.psu.edu/section/default.asp?WCU=CRSCNT&id=200607FAUP+++RIST++110+001>.

Ratzburg, Wilf. “Roles and Norms Defined.” Group Roles and Norms. 2004.
Organizational Behavior. 22 October 2006 <https://cms.psu.edu/section/default.asp?WCU=CRSCNT&id=200607FAUP+++RIST++110+001>.

“Six Tips for More Effective Meetings.” Effective Meetings. 2004. Effective Meetings.
22 October 2006 <http://www.effectivemeetings.com/meetingbasics/6tips.asp>.

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