Education
Should we all learn a little programming?
It goes without saying that the Internet, computers, and related technical gadgets have a major role in modern life. Given how dependent we are on this technology, how much should we know about how it all works?
Writing at TechRepublic, Justin James says we should teach programming to all students. He argues that it would help [...]
Check your phishing IQ
How good are you at detecting a phish? Phishers have become expert at fooling people so it’s not as easy as you may think. Periodically, I mention sites where you can test your ability to detect a phish and here’s one from SonicWall.
Internet dangers- is Windows at fault?
A previous post related problems that botnets are causing Internet users. How did these botnets get created? The proximate answer is that it is because Windows (particularly older versions) has so many security holes that it is easily infected in any number of ways. Among those pointing a finger at Windows is Steven Vaughan-Nichols, who [...]
Visit the moon with Google Earth
Forty years ago, man walked on the moon. Today, you can explore the moon yourself with the Google Earth software. Details are at the Google Lat Long blog. Also, see this Google Earth post.
Digital Karnak
Having been there, I can say that even today the ancient Egyptian temple complex at Karnak is spectacular. But, of course, what exists today is only a shadow of what was once there. However, we can now see what the site may have looked like from a virtual reality model. Science News reports:
For the [...]
The wonderful world of words
Here’s a Web site for those who are fascinated with words. It’s called Phrontistery, which means a “thinking-place”. The description of the site says:
Welcome to the Phrontistery! I’m your host, Forthright. Since 1996, I have compiled word lists in order to spread the joy of the English language. Here, you will find the International House [...]
More sites for answers
For many, simply going to Google is adequate for getting answers to questions. If you really know how to use search terms, Google can suffice. Of course, Google just leads you to sites that may have your answers. But there are many other places that are more specialized and may make it easier to find [...]
Trying out WolframAlpha
The computational engine WolframAlpha (WA) became available to the general public today. I took a quick look and my initial impression is that this is a site that will probably be little used by many (maybe most) home PC owners. This is not a conventional search engine. It is, however, a facility that researchers and [...]
Learning online
More and more, educational material is being placed on the Web. Many of our best universities have made lectures from their faculty members available. One place to go for a variety of courses and lectures is Academic Earth. Another place to find out what free courses are available is Education Portal.
Technological ignorance
The proper functioning of a democracy depends on an informed electorate. Unfortunately, the US seems to have reached a state where neither the electorate nor the elected have the background knowledge to make reasonable judgments about the large scientific and technological issues that face us. Given how important a role technology plays in everyone’s life, [...]
Microsoft program for teaching basic tech skills
Microsoft CEO Steve Ballmer thinks that technology can help get us out of the present financial mess. To that end, Microsoft has announced a training program. Seattle P-I reports:
Microsoft Corp. said Sunday that in response to the economic crisis it would sponsor an initiative to help train up to two million people in basic [...]
