When I think about the word “digital,” I realize it is much more complicated than I originally understood it to be. Society has made digital seem very simple. We use smartphones, watch videos, or post on social media without thinking about all the processes that’s happening behind the scenes. Every message I send or picture shared is made up of tiny pieces of information that computers store, transmit, and decode. Not thinking about the complexity of it all makes technology feel effortless and easy to use. I think this is good for people like me who use the internet and digitalize things for convenience.
In the same breath it is misleading because people should understand the concept and be able to gain understanding from something they use every day. Understanding the basics of how digital works makes me more aware of how information spreads and how online communication is different from talking or writing in the real world. Learning the technical side of digital is helpful, I don’t think it’s necessary for everyone.
Most people use technology effectively without ever coding or understanding binary systems. Of course for people interested in careers or hobbies like programming, digital design, or video editing, understanding the technical side can open doors to creating and controlling digital content in ways others don’t want to. The simplicity of digital is nice, but it’s a falsity. Taking the time to understand even a little of how it works can give better perspective on what digital media allows someone to do. I’ve never wanted to be a coder, but knowing the complexity makes me think differently about the tools I use every day.
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