What is the Message?
“The medium is the message” is Marshall McLuhan’s famous phrase that underscores the profound impact of media and technology on how we perceive and process information. Technological platforms have reshaped not only how we consume knowledge but also how we interact with the world around us. In his article Old Media, New Media, and Knowledge, J.D. Applen highlights how online learning through learning management systems like Canvas and Google Classroom have transformed our understanding of education. No longer confined to a physical building, the concept of school now extends beyond four walls, redefining the educational experience. These shifts raise important questions about the social and behavioral implications of these technological advancements.
Quick, Easy Online Searches
Consider Google, a pervasive tool for quick and easy searches. While access to the internet has significantly benefited scholars of all ages, it has also sparked concerns about how younger generations engage with information. Some argue that these tools encourage shallower reading habits. I believe algorithms and hyperlink technologies largely drive this phenomenon, intentionally shaping how users think and consume information.
Because for example, when people search for answers on Google, they often rely on the first result or the highlighted snippet that Google selects as the “best” answer. This design encourages users to accept the presented information at face value rather than seeking additional sources for verification. Contrast this with seeking a second opinion from a doctor—you wouldn’t rely solely on one doctor’s perspective without consulting another. Yet, quick online searches, condition us to prioritize convenience over deeper inquiry. This shift rewires our brains to favor efficiency over comprehensive understanding.
Platforms like Google, Canvas, and Google Classroom don’t just provide information—they shape the way we learn, process, and think. Through their rhetoric, they subtly influence our behaviors and the messages we internalize. Understanding these dynamics is crucial as we navigate the evolving landscape of digital media and its impact on society.
Read my last blog: The Power of Code
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