Posted: May 25th, 2023

Instructions
You are working for a local department store in the Operations Department. You notice that their business practices and use of technology are not up to date. The Human Resources Department does not have adequate computer access and often requires employees to complete some business at home. They also require prospective employees to apply from home. You recognize that not all people have personal computers, and some might be accessing business and personal records from a public computer. There are two prominent sociological theories that can be used to easily examine computer usage for individuals and organizations. Those theories are Conflict Theory and Symbolic Interaction Theory.

At a staff meeting, you and your team are engaged in a discussion about the use of technology on both an individual and organizational level. You cite the digital divide as a major concern. Your store is considering an upgrade in some or all of their technological resources.

Recognizing that you are technologically savvy, your supervisor asks you to generate a visual comparison that considers the use of public computers versus a personal computer. You will rank concepts such as ease of use, time, and comfort in completing tasks, security factors, email management, and safety in conducting business that is typically completed on a computer that may lead someone to experience the digital divide (a difference between groups of people and their use of digital technology). You will also need to consider the sociological theories named above and explain how from a sociological perspective, it would benefit or hinder the store you work in to upgrade their technology.

Your comparison should consider various factors identified below and will illustrate the benefits and some potential limitations of utilizing technology. Your presentation will be presented to your supervisor and other members of the Operations Department in order to determine which, if any, components of the store’s current technological operations will be updated. The visual comparison can be in any engaging format that you select.

For this comparison chart, you are to reflect upon and address the following sets of questions/information.

Define conflict theory.
Define symbolic interaction theory.
Discuss how each of these theories would explain the use of technology and the development of the digital world we now live.
Consider multiple ways that society has changed in the past several decades and what contributed to that change.
Provide examples of technological growth and change over the past several decades.
Make direct correlations between the technologies that exist and the changes that have occurred at the organizational and societal levels in the past several decades.
Define digital divide.
Consider factors that create the digital divide, such as access to technology, socioeconomic status, age, personal interest, location of residence, etc.
Based upon factors that cause the digital divide, suggest ways that this divide can be combated.
How does the digital divide apply to the store that you work in for this scenario?
Which theoretical perspective can best be applied to your store in the above scenario to help explain and counter the impacts of the digital divide?

______________________-
To address the questions and information provided, I will present a visual comparison chart that considers the use of public computers versus personal computers, highlighting various factors that contribute to the digital divide. Additionally, I will explain how the sociological theories of Conflict Theory and Symbolic Interaction Theory can help understand and counter the impacts of the digital divide.

Visual Comparison: Public Computers vs. Personal Computers

Factors Public Computers Personal Computers
Ease of Use May have limited functionality and user-friendliness due to restricted access and configuration Fully customizable and personalized settings
Time and Comfort in Completing Tasks Limited time availability, may require waiting or adhering to specific usage hours and policies Flexible and convenient, accessible anytime, and tailored to individual preferences
Security Factors Increased risk of privacy breaches, data theft, and malware due to shared access and limited security measures Enhanced security options, such as firewalls, antivirus software, and encryption
Email Management Limited access to personal or work email accounts, potential privacy concerns due to public access Full control over personal or work email accounts, increased privacy and security measures
Safety in Conducting Business Potential risk of unauthorized access to business and personal records when using public computers Increased safety and privacy when conducting business, reduced risk of data breaches
Explanation of Sociological Theories:

Conflict Theory:

Conflict theory focuses on the power struggles and social inequalities within society. It would explain the use of technology and the development of the digital world as a reflection of existing power dynamics.
In the context of the digital divide, conflict theory would argue that the unequal distribution of resources and access to technology creates and perpetuates social inequalities. Those with limited access face disadvantages in education, employment, and various aspects of life, reinforcing existing power imbalances.
Symbolic Interaction Theory:

Symbolic interaction theory examines how individuals interpret and assign meaning to social interactions and symbols. It would explain the use of technology and the digital world as products of shared meanings and social interactions.
Regarding the digital divide, symbolic interaction theory would highlight how people’s perceptions and interpretations of technology influence their willingness to engage with it. Factors such as personal interest, social norms, and cultural values shape individuals’ interactions with technology and their willingness to bridge the digital divide.
Changes in Society and Technological Growth:

Societal Changes:

Increased globalization and interconnectedness.
Changing communication patterns and social interactions.
Shifts in the nature of work and employment.
Transformations in the way information is accessed and shared.
Technological Growth:

Introduction and widespread adoption of personal computers.
Internet expansion and the emergence of the World Wide Web.
Mobile technology advancements (smartphones, tablets).
Development of social media platforms.
Rise of e-commerce and online services.
Digital Divide and its Factors:

Definition: The digital divide refers to the gap between individuals and groups who have access to digital technologies and those who do not, resulting in disparities in opportunities, resources, and knowledge.

Factors contributing to the digital divide:

Access to technology (availability of devices, internet connection).
Socioeconomic status (income, education, wealth).
Age (generational differences in technology adoption).
Personal interest and digital literacy.
Location of residence (urban vs. rural areas).
Combating the Digital Divide:

Expanding access: Initiatives to provide affordable or free internet access and technology in underserved areas.

Digital literacy programs: Offering training and resources to enhance technological skills and knowledge.

Collaboration and partnerships: Public-private collaborations to bridge the divide

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