Nonprint Media Services

The following are selected video titles in the collections of Nonprint Media Services that deal with technology and diversity.

Facing our Science Fiction Future (19 min.)
QA76.9.C66F33
Summary: Arthur C. Clarke discusses the impact of computer technology on the workplace, introduces the subject of artifical intelligence, and speculates on the evolution of man and intelligence.

Fair Play (57 min.)
LC213.2.F35 2000
Summary: Exposes counterproductive classroom behaviors and presents measures being taken to correct the misperception that computing is a males-only domain. Professionals in education scrutinize issues including equal computer access in the classroom, attitude barriers both in class and out, and efforts to develop software and Web sites that enfranchise female users rather than reinformce gender stereotypes. Originally broadcast in 1999 as a segment of the television program Digital Divide: Teachers, Technology, and the Classroom.

Highway to Cyberia (45 min.)
QA76.9.C66H53 1994
Summary: This program examines the near future of computers, focusing on technologies that may make it possible to shop and bank at home, watch movies on demand, and experience virtual reality. The program balances this vision of the future with questions about information overload, increasing user isolation, and coping with the speed of change.

Second Thoughts on the Information Highway (59 min.)
QA76.9.C66S425 1996
Summary: The lively Clifford Stoll discusses topics from his book: Silicon snake oil: second thoughts on the information superhighway. Prof. Stoll speaks for approx. 30 min. about the current "culture of computing" and the societal impact of the applications of computerized communications technology. He then addresses questions from the audience for the remainder of the time. Recorded April 4, 1996 in San Francisco at the Commonwealth Club of California and broadcast by C-SPAN (Cable-Satellite Public Affairs Network).

Technology and Change (23 min.)
T14.5.T44 1990
Summary: Looks at some of the effects of rapid technological change on personal lives, business practice, and society at large. Industrial and academic authorities discuss the implications of computers, microtechnology, and a range of other innovations.

Towards the Global Family (22 min.)
P90.T68
Summary: Arthur C. Clarke, developer of the communications satellite concept, traces the communications revolution from the invention of printing to the development of the computer. He also addresses the impact of this revolution on business, industry, finance, the military, and global relations.

Virtual Equality (57 min.)
LC213.2.V57 2000
Summary: Examines the urgent need in inner cities for technology-centered education through home computer access, community technology centers, and schools that are properly funded and staffed. Assesses the use of computers as tools for higher education as opposed to merely being used as drill masters. Originally broadcast in 1999 as a segment of the television program Digital Divide: Teachers, Technology, and the Classroom.

Worlds Out of Time (48 min.)
T14.5.W6 1995
Summary: Incorporates "advanced 3D computer graphics" along with interviews with ten computer experts, scientists, philosophers, and authors from various countries. The interviewees discuss the idea of an increasingly homogenous, technology-dominated, global culture assimilating the many diverse cultures of the world. Their comments focus on the role and impact of technology regarding this phenomenon.

Yesterday, Tomorrow and You (50 min.)
T15.C66 1990z pt.10
Summary: This final episode of the Connections series with James Burke focuses on technological change as an accelerating force in modern civilization. Analyzes the basic causes of invention and technical change by use of examples from the past, and also comments on the roles of communication and specialization in society. Include speculation on human responses to future changes.