2.4: Digital Practices in the Workplace
In this subunit, we consider how changes with technology will impact digital practices in the workplace.
Upon successful completion of this subunit, you will be able to:
- describe how like-minded professionals in your field of interest network online;
- discuss how technology has changed business practices in your field of interest or career;
- list contemporary examples of artificial intelligence in the workplace;
- review the potential impact of automation in your field of interest or career; and
- list the implications for learning and skills development in your future career precipitated by changes in digital technology.
In this short video signpost, Ken Steele from Eduvation speculates about the future of the labour market and the value of higher education in a digital age.
Digital citizenship is all about being a person on the web. In the previous learning pathway on online identity, we noted that individuals portray different personas online, for example personal, academic and professional.
On the one hand, we need to be careful about what we post online because our posts could negatively impact our future career prospects or current employment. We must also be cognizant of the different limitations different careers place on what we can share publicly and what needs to remain private. On the other hand, building a strong learning or professional network online helps us stay up-to-date with new trends and establish connections with our peers.
In this section, we reflect on the balance between public and private in a digital world, recognizing that the best choice will depend on our work environment and professional circumstances. We will also explore how like-minded professionals in your field of interest network online.
Mini Challenge Summary
Summary: Exploring professional online identity and networking in the field of your choice. Time: 1 hour.
New technologies have influenced change in society throughout our history. Consider how the invention of the steam engine contributed to the Industrial Revolution. Recently, widespread use of digital photography has displaced Kodachrome, the leader in color film sales, which ceased production in 2009.
Many predict artificial intelligence (AI) will significantly impact society and business. Examples include, autonomous cars, computer understanding of human speech, and machine learning. For example, computer chess games available for commercial desktop machines can beat accomplished chess players including grand masters.
In this section we introduce some interesting examples of artificial intelligence to provide a sense of how sophisticated these technologies are becoming.
In this section we consider the impact of automation on the future job market and the implications for education and training. We ask: Will robots replace humans? What jobs are most at risk of being replaced by robots? What are the implications for learning in a digital age?
Mini Challenge Summary
Summary: Preparing for the future in an automated world. Time: 1 hour.
