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Technology and Creativity, Essay Example

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Have you ever questioned what creativity is or how creativity is measured? Creativity can be defined as the ability to create something that is of value from ideas and other concepts that makes a task easier or more pleasant. Charles Mingus said, “Creativity is more than just being different. Anybody can plan weird; that’s easy. What’s hard is to be as simple as Bach. Making the simple, awesomely simple, that’s creativity”.Today, in our world, technology is everywhere. Society has become more dependent upon technology, consequently, which leads to the dimension of skills like creativity or critical thinking ability.The employment of various other complex skills, I believe, is what creative thinking is. As a result, I believe creative thinking is the application of logic and reason to an unfamiliar situation. Being creative means one has to be open-minded and willing to see situations from various points of view. Because creativity involves respecting the ideas of others, it is one of the most important aspects critical thinking. Another important aspect of critical thinking is being able to approach the problems rationally. One must understand that what may seem rational to him/her may not be rational to someone else. Children in today’s society have learned to depend more on technology than free play and thinking. My goal is to prove that the use of technology has negatively affected students’ ability to become productive members of society because it hinders social skills.

The use of technology has lead to a short attention span for students. For example:

“With extensive recurrent internet usage, studies indicate the development of systemic implications such as short term attention spans and scattered thinking. When we work online, our brains are constantly pressured to take in vast amounts of information. Many links on one page connect to others, sidebar advertisements flash and divert attention, web pages contain tantalizing pictures, and other factors all contribute to distractions while looking up information” (Olsen ).

Lack of patience, a common complaint, which we make about teenagers. With the use of technology, teenagers seldom have to wait for anything. There are numerous examples of how technology has made processes almost instantaneous. Before computers, friends that lived far apart called or wrote each other letters. When I first went away to college, I wrote my high school friends often. I eagerly anticipated a return letter from them.  People have many choices, today, to use to communicate with one another. First, there is instant messaging or text messaging. With this method a person can communicate with another person in real time instantly. There is also email and social media sites, both of which are also instantly. Because youngsters are growing up with access to technology that is instantaneous, they are very impatient. When they have to complete tasks that take long periods of time, they become agitated and often just quit. While all of the various forms of technology engage young people, it often becomes addictive to them.

Over a period of time, I believe, evolution takes place. Nicholas Carr, an evaluator of the internet and its impact on student learning, said that students “are evolving from cultivators of personal knowledge into hunters and gathers in the electronic forest…dazzled by the Net’s treasures, we are blind to the damage we may be doing to our intellectual lives and even our culture”. History has taught us this over and over. Likewise, the brains of young people are evolving to the tech savvy world around them. They no longer have to write or spell. No longer do we hear the scratch of the pencil lead against the paper or the “err” “err” of the eraser. We now hear the click, chirp, and cheep of cell phones. Writing skills, of course, have diminished. Text message and email lingo is difficult to decipher sometimes by people who are not use to reading and writing in lingo. Because there are no grammatical rules to use when chatting with friends via instant message or email, often they are unable to write in other situations when grammatical rules apply.Olsen added, “The human brain is malleable. It is able to change to form new synaptic and neural connections in order to gradually restructure itself in a way to effectively incorporate information. Studies indicate that daily internet users have brains that are gradually being restructured with these distinctive neural connections due to frequent exposure”.  Young people, consequently, are unable to handle face to face conflict. With social media, it is quite easy to just log off or not respond, but in face to face contact it requires some critical thinking skills to handle situations. Because they are unable to diffuse potentially bad situations, so many young people find themselves in trouble at school or within their communities. Young people are more willing to solve problems using brute force and physical contact because they are unable to adequately communicate.

The point I want to make is that person to person communication is almost nonexistent. Young people are able tweet Twitter messages via social media and other forms of technology daily. Often one will see them in a social setting, but instead of conversating with the people around them, they are messaging. The constant lack of communicating with others will lead to isolation and the ability to use the skill. Those who spend the majority of their time communicating via technology will drift away from family and friends. I have experienced this first hand. I found myself spending too much time on social media sites that my personal relationships went lacking.  Initially, the person may feel this is not a problem, but eventually they suffer from depression and anxiety about person to person contact(Carr). In the future, these young people will have difficulty with job interviewers. Being able to hold a conversation with a real life person may prove impossible. Depending upon the type of job they choose, it may be difficult to perform job duties like making eye contact and paying attention to details. People who lack these essential communication skills will not be able to perform in a professional setting. Being able to adequately communicate requires much more than speaking ability. Body language is just as important. When young people have not been exposed to body language and gestures, they may miss many unspoken cues. Another common complaint about young people is the fact they are unaware of what personal space is. They often stand too close or cross personal boundaries when they are in social settings. All of these equate to poor judgment due to the lack of person to person contact. I have experienced this, personally, when I work with my students. I had to actually have a conversation with them about what id too close. When they get too close, I say: “Sally Sue Should Know What TO Do”.

Don’t get me wrong, I know there are some positive effects of technology, but parents must be vigilant and proactive. Researchers have proven that being a part of social media sites help to build children self-esteem and for those shy students it allows them to avoid face to face contact until they are comfortable doing so. Technology is also a great teaching tool. Parents and teachers can enhance what they are trying to convey. However, it should be used as just that-a tool. “Despite these benefits, proven trends indicate that with our customary reliance on the internet every day, our originality and higher order thinking is diminishing” (Carr). Parents and teachers should not rely on technology to do their jobs or to pacify the child in their absence. Children must be taught to manage their emotions and behaviors appropriately. They must be able to self regulate. Self-regulation is a skill that is learned in the face to face world and can be carried over to the technology world when appropriate. Those children who already know these skills are less likely to be risky in their behaviors while using technology. There are three qualities, I believe, individuals must possess to make appropriate decisions. The first is the ability to recognize ethical issues and to reason through the ethical consequences of each decision. The ability to see second and third order effects, one of the elements of strategic thinking, is very important. The second is the ability to look at alternative points of view, and decide what is right in a particular situation. Finally, the third is the ability to deal with ambiguity and uncertainty; thus making a decision on the best information available.Ultimately, I want it to be known that technology cannot teach children to think in this manner. This task is placed on the shoulders of adults and educators in the lives of young people.

My conclusion is that every person is capable of creativity. Some children are fortunate enough to have their talents and creativity nurtured as they grow into who they are to become. During my time as a teacher, I experienced this first hand. For many students, using technology was second nature because they had access at home, but for others it was scary beast. For those, I gave them the opportunities to grow in confidence as they embarked on creative experiences. Those people who are now great artists, performers, writers, and inventors were once creative children. Creativity makes one’s life a journey instead of just a ride. Creativity does not mean making something new, it means perfecting things to tailor to specific needs. I believe that every human being is born with a brain that is capable of creativity. They are apt to find innovative ways to make life easier and more productive for them. Creativity is the most important quality that one has; it sets one apart from others. Logically, one can deduce that technology is hindering students from thinking for themselves. It is producing robots that are unable to do nothing more or less than the required. By the time a child is 9 or 10, he/she has been stripped of creativity due to unlimited technology use. Technology, naturally, makes youngsters seek the easiest way to complete a task instead of the best or more effective way. In today’s world, people are placed under strict time restraints to produce quick results. Fast food restaurants, pay-per-view, instant messaging, and microwave dinners are just a few examples of how children are taught to expect fast results. Creativity makes life fun because it takes away the monotony. Nevertheless, creativity is driven by passion. Youngsters must take a break from technology and examine themselves to discover what they are passionate about- then and only then will they unlock their creativity.

Works Cited

Carr, Nicholas. “Does the Internet Make You Dumber?” The Wall Street Journal. Business News & Financial News , 05 June 2010. Web. 26 Jan. 2015

Olsen, Stefanie. “Are We Getting Smarter or Dumber?” Brain Fitness & Brain Training . Posit Page | 15 Science, 21 Sept. 2005. Web. 26 Jan. 2015

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15 Technology and Creativity

• Published: December 2023
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This chapter reviews the relationship between creativity and technology. Recent decades have seen bursts of creativity and innovation fueled by digital technologies, and creativity also fuels the development of new technological tools. From social media, to artificial intelligence (AI), to other daily digital tools that people use, new technologies are accelerating, and they affect how people live, work, communicate, and create. In this chapter, the authors define technology (both digital and otherwise) and consider the theoretical foundations of how technologies support creativity, and how creativity impacts the development of technologies (e.g., affordances, affordance theory, sociocultural influences). The chapter discusses research on creativity relative to new technological phenomena, like internet creativity, YouTube, content creators, crowdsourced creativity, online art, makerspaces, augmented reality, virtual reality, artificial intelligence, and more. The authors conclude by considering how technology alters the landscape of creativity in ever-changing ways.

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Is Technology Hindering Creativity? Essay

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How Technology is Hindering Creativity

How distractions caused by technology hinder creativity, how technology is causing social anxiety.

Recently, there have been numerous studies exploring the effects of technology on the youth population. Along with the significant growth in technology use, there are substantial gaps in knowledge about the rapid and sweeping changes it has on young people. Technology offers many benefits, including sustaining distance learning, improvements in communication, sustainable development, and transformation of goods and services. If it is universally accessible and used appropriately, technology can be a game-changer for the youth. It can significantly help address numerous problems regardless of a person’s disability, ethnicity, geographic isolation, or race. It can do so by providing youths with the knowledge and skills necessary to succeed in an increasingly digital world and connecting them to a world full of new opportunities. However, technology also has adverse effects on youth. Unarguably, technology is slowly reducing human’s imagination and creativity because people are highly dependent on the internet, are digitally distracted, and is sometimes causing social anxiety.

Today’s society has become more dynamic and complex than in the past. Therefore, it demands people to demonstrate creativity in unforeseeable and complicated situations. Creativity is the ability to design and imagine new inventions, solve difficulties in new ways, produce works of art, or develop an idea based on an unconventional or original approach. Creativity is perhaps the essential skill required in today’s ever-changing environment. However, reliance on digital technology is turning people uncreative as most of them rely on the internet for nearly all their information needs. “People are increasingly turning to digital platforms, especially the internet, to access knowledge instead of relying on their ability to think” (Alter 2018, p.5). Precisely, technology has gradually altered people’s imaginativeness as it has reduced people’s ability to think critically and creatively.

Google has become the ‘go to resource’ for information: People rarely check if the information they receive from Google is correct. Such an issue has stifled creativity as people think less and rely more on information from Google. Since this has become habitual, creativity is increasingly becoming uncommon, especially if it goes against the grain; that is if one thinks outside the box or has ideas considered unconventional. People are increasingly becoming reluctant to think for themselves or formulate new ideas and instead rely on technology. The practice is becoming a dangerous state of affairs, as there are chances that people may become misinformed. Being misinformed increases the likelihood of suffering manipulation as people cannot judge or assess the credibility of the information available to the public. Although integral, the internet can be a useful source of information. The platform can also be used to spread misinformation. Precisely, the increasing inability to think critically and creatively makes people increasingly susceptible to misinformation and manipulation.

People usually argue that technology is helping the world advance, at least by making information more accessible. From an independent view, the notion may be accurate, but it is also encouraging a retrogressive culture because it hampers people’s capacity to think freely or objectively. According to Adam Alter (2018), a New York Times bestselling author, “there is a lack of professionals to filter internet content” (p. 26). Therefore, an avalanche of substandard content threatens the global economy, values, and even creativity and innovation. The suggestion above is conceivable in that most information on the internet goes unverified, and people cannot doubt its legitimacy. Therefore, misinformation is becoming a severe problem in the digital world because it easily misleads people. Sociologist Jurgen Habermas proposes that “the internet contributes to the deterioration of creativity as intellectuals lose their ability to create a focus as there is a multi-focus, decentered public sphere developing through computer-mediated communication.

One of the many different functions performed by the human brain is creativity, which is perhaps the brain’s most crucial role. Remarkably, innovation involves advancement or progress and is an integral part of problem-solving. Today, people are increasingly becoming dependent on their mobile devices and the internet to access information. Individuals seem attached to their phones and internet-enabled devices, consequently making it a norm. Presently, it has become common to search online for details without “fact checking” the content received by people. This method of obtaining information has become the norm. It has had a negative impact on creativity in that most people receive similar information from the same source.

Creativity starts with attention or awareness. One must observe and analyze things to be imaginative. Whether it is attention to the world around our inner selves or us, innovativeness starts with the conscious choice to be attentive. People’s increasing reliance on technology creates a world where people are less aware of their physical surroundings or events happening around them. For example, smartphones have become the most common solution to boredom. People have lost the capacity to find innovative ways to manage boredom because they rely on various applications and games on their smartphones when they are not busy.

What most people are referencing when using the term “boredom” is the idea of simple monotony. Clay Shirky (2010), a lecturer at the Interactive Telecommunications Program at New York University, suggests that, “idleness implies a minor sensation felt when a person is in a short unavoidable, and predictable situation that entails the absence of engagement” (p. 45). For most people, boredom usually occurs in a few familiar places, such as long car rides, checkout lines, and bus stops. The notion of idleness has adopted negative meanings and led to a consideration that it is a waste of time. However, wandering of the mind proves to be amongst the most productive processes.

When an individual is idle and, especially when they are alone, their brain goes into a state a free or unrestricted form. According to Shirky (2010), “scholars refer to a person’s mental status during periods of boredom as a “default mode network” (p. 37). In the time spent in default mode, an individual is alone with only their thoughts and no outer stimuli. The experience provides an opportunity for the brain to engage in free-thinking, otherwise known as creativity. Such activity helps to make use of idle time constructively. Idle time presents the perfect opportunity for a person to apply imagination in several ways, such as constructing their sense of self. In other words, to understand their personalities better through critical thought.

The constant use of technology impairs critical thinking, which is an integral aspect of creativity. Critical thinking about oneself comprises aspects like evaluating feelings, dislikes, experiences, failures, and achievements. Alter (2018) suggests that, “creative thinking enshrines an account of an individual’s past and is responsible for how they imagine their future” (19). Such a process leads to the assessment of the physical body, feelings, and the necessary response. Additionally, the closer a person is in-tune with how they are can imply their ability to reflect on or analyze external events. Such a scenario occurs because the individuals have a relatively robust and broad understanding of self and are not easily swayed or manipulated.

The less a person relies on technology, the more they develop their ability to self-analyze and think freely and imaginatively. “Creative thinking is the cornerstone of a person’s emotional intelligence and is necessary for a deeper connection and understanding of one’s identity” (Bonnardel & Zenasni, 2010, p. 182). Unfortunately, due to overreliance on technology, most people have little time for self-reflection, and consequently, their ability to think crucially and creatively diminishes significantly. Some distractions caused by technology, especially the internet, through the provision of suggestions to read certain content or information have led to a world of “shallow thinkers.” These slow thinkers experience an influx of information that influences their creative process. Shirky (2010) explains that since a person’s working memory is continuously overloaded, they cannot think properly, causing the loss or impairment of their long-term memory. Shirky’s assertion is seemingly supported by Naveen Joshi (2019), Director at Allerin.Process Automation, who proposes that, “when the load of information exceeds the mind’s capacity to store and process information, it results in a situation where the person cannot retain some details” (p. 121). Additionally, the person may not draw connections with information already kept in their long-term memory effectively. Therefore, it is the long-term memory that produces creative thinking.

Social anxiety can also imply emotional phobia or shyness. Such fear is an extreme manifestation of stress and includes various symptoms which, unlike “ordinary” shyness, can differ in severity throughout an individual’s life. “People usually derive their inspiration through a need to belong” (Bonnardel & Didier 2016, 85). However, individuals suffering from social anxiety might find it hard to fulfill this social need due to reliance on technology such as smartphones, games (like the Play Station), and computers. For people with anxiety, these technologies function as a substitute for human interaction. The gadgets distract them from ordinary life and lead to the avoidance of social situations.

Regulating one’s emotions is a vital part of development, especially for young people during their formative years. Individuals learn to cope and handle strong emotions by establishing inner regulatory processes and experiencing them. According to Arooj Rizvi (2016), a lecturer at the University of the Punjab, “Individuals with social anxiety are at increased risk for complications such as depression, suicide attempts, and alcohol abuse” (120). To avoid situations that may lead to nervousness, people with the problem often turn to technology as an avoidance tool. For example, social media offers the ideal space for people suffering from social anxiety to interact with other people without physically meeting. In such cases, the technology works to the detriment of people with emotional fear because it masks the problems and can lead to complicated situations such as disrupting family life, limiting work efficiency, or reducing self-esteem.

Technology has undoubtedly revolutionized how we interact and has introduced immense benefits. However, technology has also caused adverse effects, especially at the individual level, such as stifling creativity. Technology is slowly killing imagination because people are highly dependent on the internet and are digitally distracted. The technological advancements are also causing social anxiety. People can argue that the brain functions just like a muscle and gets stronger with regular use. Therefore, overreliance on technology has resulted in less utility of the mind leading to reduced creativity. Social anxiety is a condition characterized by the fear of humiliation or embarrassment. Overreliance on socially interactive technologies, like instant messaging and social media, has exacerbated social anxiety by offering “safe spaces” that do not require human interaction. To avoid emotional pressure, a person might seek distraction from interaction by relying on technology to communicate with others. In the long-term, the fear may lead to severe conditions such as depression or reinforce behavioral avoidance towards natural emotional experiences.

Alter, L.A. (2018). Irresistible: The Rise of Addictive Technology and the Business of Keeping Us Hooked . Penguin Books.

Bonnardel, N., & Didier, J. (2016). Enhancing creativity in the educational design context: An exploration of the effects of design project-oriented methods on students’ evocation processes and creative output. Journal of Cognitive Education and Psychology , 15 (1), 80-101.

Bonnardel, N., & Zenasni, F. (2010). The impact of technology on creativity in design: an enhancement? Creativity and innovation management , 19 (2), 180-191.

Joshi, N. (2019). Is technology increasing or killing our creativity? Allerin .

Rizvi, A.Z. (2016). Personality, social anxiety, and excessive use of Facebook. Int J Psychol BehavSci , 6 (1), 119–127.

Shirky, C. (2010). Cognitive Surplus. Creativity and Generosity in a Connected Age . Penguin Group.

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How technology enhances creativity.

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I recently wrote a post about how marketers will need to learn to rely less on judgment and intuition in the era of big data .  It’s a controversial subject, especially since many marketers pride themselves, in fact have built their careers, on having a reputation for instinct.

So I expected a certain amount of pushback, but instead many people seemed to think that I was arguing that technology was diminishing the need for creativity in marketing.  This is clearly not the case.  So let me set the record straight.

Technology does not quell creativity, in fact, there’s a great deal of evidence that suggests that technology enhances creativity.  Certainly, we are expected to be more creative in our working lives than a generation ago.  The truth is that by expanding possibilities and automating part of the creative process, we can all be more creative and productive.

Defining The Creative Process

While many like to think of creativity as a mysterious process, researchers generally agree that there are clear principles at work, such as a lucid formulation of the problem, knowledge and practice in a particular field, crossing domains and persistence.

I previously summarized these principles in formulating a creative process in a  post about creative intelligence :

1. Forming intent: Every creative act starts with a purpose.  Whether it is a marketer trying to solve for a particular business objective, a designer working with a specific brief or an artist looking to express a distinct idea or emotion.  It is through forming intent that we establish the constraints under which creativity thrives.

The process of forming intent is inherently human. There are some things that machines will never do: they will never strike out at a little league game, fall in love, have their heart broken or raise a family.  It is out of human experience that our wants and desires arise.

2. Searching The Domain:   All great artists—or for that matter, anybody who is good at anything—are students of their craft.  By thoroughly examining their domain, they become aware of a variety of techniques, alternative approaches and different philosophies.  The larger the creative toolbox, the greater the possibility for creative excellence.

One particularly famous and well studied example of the benefits of searching the domain is Picasso’s encounter with African art that led him to pioneer cubism and marked a turning point in his career. His later work, combining aspects of both European and African style, set a new course for the art world.

3. Tangling Hierarchies: Truly revolutionary creative acts come from synthesizing across domains , as Picasso did with African and European art or Darwin did by combining insights from economics, geology and biology to come up with his theory of natural selection .

The idea of combination comes up prominently in research into the psychology of creativity, such as Mihaly Csikszentmihalyi’s discussion of creative flow and Douglas Hofstadter’s concept of strange loops .  Innovation is largely the art of combination.

Technology Eradicates Barriers To Creative Excellence

Luck and chance have always played a role in creativity.  What if Picasso had not wandered into that African art exhibition or Darwin not taken the voyage on The Beagle ?  These happy accidents are interesting and exciting, but luck is not a strategy.  In fact, history is full of examples of missed opportunities because of deficiencies of information.

Darwin’s theory remained incomplete for half a century, because he was not able to specify a mechanism by which traits were inherited. Ironically, his contemporary, Gregor Mendel , had discovered the principles of genetics shortly after Darwin published his famous work, but they remained completely unaware of each other for their entire lifetimes.

Clearly, technology has transformed human experience .  We are no longer separated by time and space, but are largely working off of the same massive database.  The sum total of human knowledge is merely a few clicks away. Domains are no longer hidden behind barriers of circumstance or tradition, but are accessible to anyone with a search engine.

And it is not just information that has become accessible, but personal contact. Whether through social media or web video conferences or MOOC’s , it’s far easier to people to meet and collaborate than ever before in human history. Searching the domain is no longer a matter of chance.  Technology and automation have streamlined the process.

Mixing And Remixing

There is a fundamental difference between knowledge and information . Knowledge is personal.  I might know how to play the piano or how to get to the store, but transferring that knowledge to another is a cumbersome affair. It’s difficult to explain things exactly as we experience them and the person on the other side won’t take it all in with perfect fidelity.

Information, on the other hand, is a storable, fungible entity.  We can store and transfer it with any level of accuracy we choose, which makes it easy to combine with other information.  In fact, it’s become so easy to combine ideas through information that we’ve come to think of mashups as banal and trite.

That’s because combining ideas no longer takes any particular skill.  Like searching domains, the process has become so completely automated that it ceases to be associated with personal expression.  Devoid of toil and labor, it requires negligible specific intent.

Simulating Failure

The ugly truth is that most creative acts are failures, which is why, as Robert Weisberg points out in his book Creativity , outstanding creative work is tightly linked to prolific output.  The more work we produce, the more great work we produce.  The problem is that it’s often hard to separate the good from the bad.

Malcolm Gladwell illustrated in David and Goliath how this can create serious difficulties.  Even geniuses like Monet and Renoir found it difficult to stand out when they had one or two paintings among the thousands at Paris’s famous Salon exhibition , but gained traction when they created their own show where they could display more works.

Clearly, failure in the analog world was expensive, tiresome and frustrating. But in the digital world, we can simulate failure cheaply and easily.  From CAD software to 3D printers , A/B testing to agent based models , technology lets us experiment in the world of bits before we invest resources in the world of atoms.

And that’s how technology enhances creativity, it drastically reduces the cost of actualizing our intent.  We can search domains, mix and match ideas and test concepts almost effortlessly.  That means we can try out a lot more possibilities and increase the chances of producing something truly outstanding.

The Rise of the Creative Class

Probably the strongest sign that technology enhances creativity is that, as Richard Florida argues in The Rise Of The Creative Class , creativity is becoming an intrinsic part of working life.  The man in the gray flannel suit has been replaced by the hipster with spiky hair and tattoos.

As we become a more technological society, we also become a more creative society, because many of the rote tasks that used to take up a lot of our time and effort have become automated.  What’s more, technology increases our potential to engage in the types of experiences that lead to greater creativity.

Certainly today, exposure to African art is not rare or difficult to obtain.  A modern day Darwin wouldn’t need to embark on a five year voyage to inspect the finches of the Galapagos, an internet connection or a plane ticket would do.  He could also model his suspicions by computer, shortening the gap between hypothesis and theory.

The fact that everyone has access to a wealth and diversity of ideas and the means to actualize intent means that we all can be more creative.  As Jaron Lanier put it, “in a virtual world of infinite abundance, only creativity could ever be in short supply.”

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• Maggie Mackenzie
• Dec 28, 2020

Creativity In A World Of Technology: Does It Exist?

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About The Author

Maggie Mackenzie is an Australian writer and editor, currently working as a Copywriter for White Peak Digital, a web design company based in Australia. She has … More about Maggie ↬

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Technology has done our world wonders: from advancements in medicine, travel, communication, and not to mention our own day-to-day lives. There’s no doubt that it has “ transformed human experience ” by impacting the way our society functions, as well as how we interact with one another and ourselves. But is this actually a good thing?

By completely embracing technology as a part of our everyday lives, are we inadvertently impacting our ability to create and be creative — without the help of a screen? While some argue that as the world continues to advance, so do our creative pursuits. With so much being replaced and repurposed by technology, it nonetheless seems appropriate to question: how exactly is technology impacting creativity?

Defining Creativity

Before we go deeper into discussing the relationship between technology and creativity, it’s important to define terms. Alexander Rauser, CEO of Prototype , a digital strategy agency, defined that creativity “come[s] from observing the world, interpreting it and bringing us new concepts and ideas,” while technology has become a new lens through which “to see the world differently [and] access information…” . Creativity helps us to explore new paths, imagine new possibilities, and pursue new careers. Without creativity, I would not be a writer, and designers would probably not exist. Movies, TV shows, music; everything we love and enjoy, would have little engagement. The world would probably be quite dull and boring.

When we really take a look at what we surround ourselves with, I think we’d be hard-pressed to find something that doesn’t have a creative element to it. I suppose, it is inside this tension, where the challenge begins to set in. Given the ambiguous nature of creativity, a blanket statement of ‘creativity no longer exists’ is a very hard call to make. Creativity is not just one thing, but instead, is many.

As such, when we discuss the existence of creativity in a world immersed in technology, it’s incredibly important to define what aspects of creativity are being impacted and why . Are we discussing childhood creativity? Innovation creativity? Web design creativity? Each has its own set of parameters, influences, and complications when it comes to technology.

A study for the International Forum of Educational Technology & Society argued that in order to understand creativity as a complex phenomenon, we need to:

“...abandon the view of creativity, in which the person is at the center of everything, for a model in which the person is part of a system of mutual influences and information.” — International Forum of Educational Technology & Society

It’s almost as though we need to change the question of whether or not creativity still exists, to “ where does it exist, and who or what is it now coming from?”

Can Creativity And Technology Work Together?

The simple answer to this is yes . Creativity and technology do work together and are not mutually exclusive. Instead of suppressing creativity, technology has the ability to enhance specific areas of the creative process , by presenting a new platform for creativity to exist on (and come from). Through the advancement of technology, ideas (which may have once existed within our minds) can now be set free and come to life in the physical world. We now have the necessary tools for greater possibilities and more innovative solutions.

Technology has inspired new careers, as well as creations. In the last few decades, the amount of new industries that have blossomed to life is incredible. By taking a closer look at web design , it’s obvious that as technology rose, a new breed of designers emerged from the dark — planning to take over the Internet and help it thrive.

Espen Brunborg, Head of Design at Primate , wondered in an article for Smashing Magazine, if the Internet is, in fact, killing web design creativity , as there is an element of creative disruption occurring due to the convenience of automated grids and patterns. And while this undoubtedly has merit, there’s no denying how far web design has progressed and transformed because of technology. In such a short amount of time, web design has transversed from the first website in 1991 to the emergence of the term ‘User Experience’ in 1995 , to the creation of Google in 1998 , to Youtube in 2005 , and now the uprising in social media giants like Instagram .

Nowadays, websites are more than just a page of information; they have become an experience. A character through which to understand a business and its values. As designers began experimenting more with animations , colors, parallax layouts , content creation, and even e-commerce features, such as one-click checkouts and paycheck scanners, this only enhanced the experience for users, inviting a rapid growth in website traffic. Cindy Moore, Director of Development for MTS , wrote that “ designing websites requires the ability to brainstorm creatively, work with color theory, and appeal to users based on their wants, needs, and personal preference ”.

Advancements in technology have, arguably, forced designers to become more creative as they have had to adapt to the growing climate of personal devices. Over 50.44% of web page views are accounted for by mobile devices , which means designers need to make sure that websites are user friendly across a wide range of platforms. Techniques such as responsive web design were thus created. It introduced new thought patterns and ideas on how to make websites more engaging for users, by highlighting the importance of fluid grids and flexible images.

A research paper written by Nathalie Bonnardel, a researcher at the University of Marseille, and Franck Zenasni, a professor at the University of Paris, investigating the impact of technology on creative design, argued that “new technologies and, especially, new CAD systems may help designers to easily express their creativity as well as to assess their ideas or solutions.”

How Has Technology Impacted Business Creativity?

It’s easy to see, then, how the business world has benefited from the creativity and technology dynamic. Businesses now have the opportunity to promote themselves more creatively over a myriad of platforms and mediums, whether that’s through websites, film advertisements, social media or radio, while addressing a wider range of audiences. This has ultimately contributed greatly to the constant exposure to online content , helping businesses to keep up-to-date with their competition, research the needs of consumers, and re-imagine content to suit their needs.

Amongst all of this, the most interesting phenomenon that stands out to me is how it can be flipped the other way. Because this all sounds amazing, right? How, then, could technology negatively impact the way we create, when it affords all these amazing possibilities?

The Complication Dynamic

Ultimately, everything has a push and a pull; a light side and a dark side. For instance, petrol cars are wonderful for transport, yet not so great for the environment; money can be an incredibly beneficial source but can ruin the lives of so many. While technology and creativity may be compatible in some areas, when we begin to look more closely, it’s easy to spot some of the drawbacks — particularly when it comes to reliance, originality, and human development. A simple and clear example, for instance, is the calculator: many of us rely so heavily on automated calculations nowadays, rather than taking the time to figure it out for ourselves.

Maybe the problem is that now it’s just all too easy. We no longer have to think of content, it’s merely right in front of us. Why bother spending hours trying to develop and nurture our creativity when it’s delivered to us on a silver platter? Given what Espen Brunborg said about how our increasing dependence on machines is ultimately going to be detrimental to our creative practices, we must ask ourselves:

Are we really in control of technology, or has it taken control of us? “

The scary thing is, I don’t think we have truly seen the peak of this dynamic. What happens to creativity when the generation who has been constantly surrounded by devices since the day they were born, grows up?

Our children are undoubtedly spending more time on screens, whether they’re at home, at school, or with friends, and with “ devices becoming a fabric of their lives ,” they are consequently lessening the opportunities for them to come up with their own creations. We are so willing to give over our power to these devices, that it may come to a point where creativity “ may be harder to find in older children and adults because their creative potential has been suppressed by a society that encourages intellectual conformity .”

Moreover, the best ideas and inspirations often come to us when we are otherwise occupied, such as washing the dishes, going for a walk, staring at the clouds, or being in nature. Our minds simultaneously go blank and become clear — as if waiting for ideas to flood in and take over. Daydreaming is such a subconscious yet fulfilling experience we all unwittingly partake in.

A recent study , written by the Department of Psychology at the University of British Columbia, determined that daydreaming is actually paramount to boosting our creativity. However, with our constant exposure to technology, we are lessening the likelihood of this boosting occurring. While we can sit and mindlessly watch TV, we are constantly fixated upon a screen, restricting any time for our minds to wander, empty, and allow space for ideas. Instead, we need to be nurturing our minds . Why not take the time to stare out the window? Leave your phone behind? Aimlessly gaze at the sky for an hour? You’d be surprised by how much creativity you can inspire when you’re not otherwise occupied by technology.

Where Does The Balance Need To Be?

In the long run, where does this leave us? Have the robots already taken over , as Espen Brunborg suggests, or is there a way to find a medium between technology and human creativity? I think so. While technology is a part of our lives, it is not our life entirely. I think sometimes we forget there is a world beyond our phones, or computers, or the content we see on TV.

Finding A World Beyond Technology

We have already proven that humanity and technology can co-exist. Now it is simply a matter of re-adjusting the scales to make sure that creativity is nurtured and not deterred by either humans or technology. Rather, it is simply influenced. The best way to shift, refocus, and find a balance, is to come back to the physical world — even if for just a moment. At the heart of it, the balance needs to come from within us . Technology is only going to continue to advance, and we, as a society, must find ways to harness its potential while keeping it from hindering our own.

A case study written by Linda Miksch and Charlotte Schulz of Lund University, investigating the phenomenon of a digital detox as a reaction to technology overload, states the following:

“Due to an abuse of digital devices ... and the resulting constant availability and accessibility, the importance of finding a balance in connectivity ... grows.” — Disconnect to Reconnect: The Phenomenon of Digital Detox as a Reaction to Technology Overload

Miksch and Schulz go further as to explain specific actions we can take to limit our digital usage. These include establishing barriers around when, where, and how long we use our devices, creating awareness and living in the moment , and re-discovering the importance of offline activities and mediums. They conclude that while the use of technology itself can become habitual, so too can the implementation of daily actions “to lessen technology usage”. This simply highlights that there is a way to come back.

In fact, the documentary The Social Dilemma , directed by Jeff Orlowski, discusses the powerful impact of simply turning off the notifications on your phone. Think about it; the moment our phones ‘bing’ we jump; we see banners appear on our home screen and get a sudden rush of endorphins. It’s almost like that part of our brains attached to technology, never truly switches off. We are always on alert for the next message, next event, next piece of news. Instead, try turning your notifications off, or putting your phone on ‘Do Not Disturb’. You may even like to only turn off the notifications for a particular app, like Facebook or Instagram. Once you become accustomed to it, it’s astonishing how little you think about your phone, when the anticipation of a message is suddenly removed. Not only can switching off your notifications help you connect with the outside world, but it can also help to build a more harmonious relationship with your phone.

Recommended reading : Are Websites Adding To Consumer’s Health Issues?

Another way to reconnect with the world is, of course, to be in it and around it. Daily walks and exercise are a wonderful way to remove yourself from technology, breathe in nature, and open your mind. There is something so unexplainably calming about walking through a park lined with trees, gazing up, and seeing them softly sway in the wind. It’s almost like an instant sense of feeling grounded; a reminder that everything is okay. Perhaps it’s because nature is so far removed from technology that it shows us there is still life that exists without it. Even just half an hour a day, especially after being in front of a screen for hours at a time, can sometimes be all you need to reset, rebalance, and keep going . In the long run, a daily walk around a neighborhood can not only impact our creativity and imagination but further our mental and physical health and well-being. The good news is, it doesn’t stop here. There are so many actionable changes you can make to nurture the world beyond technology, and by extension our creativity, including meditation and yoga, keeping a journal, or reading.

The question is, how will you do it? Will you embark on a digital detox and go completely offline? Will you be conscious of putting your phone away when spending time with friends? Will you endeavor to find joy and purpose outside of a screen? The actions you choose to take, no matter their scale, will only help us to come back to a space of equilibrium and balance, changing the relationship between creativity and technology for the better. Because in the end, the key to the survival of our creativity starts with us.

Further Reading on SmashingMag:

• It’s Good To Talk: Thoughts And Feelings On Creative Wellness
• Making Peace With The Feast Or Famine Of Freelancing
• Designing Experiences To Improve Mental Health
• Dealing With Loud And Silent Burnout

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TypeScript in 50 Lessons

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The science behind creativity

Psychologists and neuroscientists are exploring where creativity comes from and how to increase your own

Vol. 53 No. 3 Print version: page 40

• Neuropsychology
• Creativity and Innovation

Paul Seli, PhD, is falling asleep. As he nods off, a sleep-tracking glove called Dormio, developed by scientists at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology, detects his nascent sleep state and jars him awake. Pulled back from the brink, he jots down the artistic ideas that came to him during those semilucid moments.

Seli is an assistant professor of psychology and neuroscience at the Duke Institute for Brain Sciences and also an artist. He uses Dormio to tap into the world of hypnagogia, the transitional state that exists at the boundary between wakefulness and sleep. In a mini-experiment, he created a series of paintings inspired by ideas plucked from his hypnagogic state and another series from ideas that came to him during waking hours. Then he asked friends to rate how creative the paintings were, without telling them which were which. They judged the hypnagogic paintings as significantly more creative. “In dream states, we seem to be able to link things together that we normally wouldn’t connect,” Seli said. “It’s like there’s an artist in my brain that I get to know through hypnagogia.”

The experiment is one of many novel—and, yes, creative—ways that psychologists are studying the science of creativity. At an individual level, creativity can lead to personal fulfillment and positive academic and professional outcomes, and even be therapeutic. People take pleasure in creative thoughts, research suggests—even if they don’t think of themselves as especially creative. Beyond those individual benefits, creativity is an endeavor with implications for society, said Jonathan Schooler, PhD, a professor of psychological and brain sciences at the University of California, Santa Barbara. “Creativity is at the core of innovation. We rely on innovation for advancing humanity, as well as for pleasure and entertainment,” he said. “Creativity underlies so much of what humans value.”

In 1950, J. P. Guilford, PhD, then president of APA, laid out his vision for the psychological study of creativity ( American Psychologist , Vol. 5, No. 9, 1950). For half a century, researchers added to the scientific understanding of creativity incrementally, said John Kounios, PhD, an experimental psychologist who studies creativity and insight at Drexel University in Philadelphia. Much of that research focused on the personality traits linked to creativity and the cognitive aspects of the creative process.

But in the 21st century, the field has blossomed thanks to new advances in neuroimaging. “It’s become a tsunami of people studying creativity,” Kounios said. Psychologists and neuroscientists are uncovering new details about what it means to be creative and how to nurture that skill. “Creativity is of incredible real-world value,” Kounios said. “The ultimate goal is to figure out how to enhance it in a systematic way.”

Streaming Audio

Creativity in the brain.

What, exactly, is creativity? The standard definition used by researchers characterizes creative ideas as those that are original and effective, as described by psychologist Mark A. Runco, PhD, director of creativity research and programming at Southern Oregon University ( Creativity Research Journal , Vol. 24, No. 1, 2012). But effectiveness, also called utility, is a slippery concept. Is a poem useful? What makes a sculpture effective? “Most researchers use some form of this definition, but most of us are also dissatisfied with it,” Kounios said.

Runco is working on an updated definition and has considered at least a dozen suggestions from colleagues for new components to consider. One frequently suggested feature is authenticity. “Creativity involves an honest expression,” he said.

Meanwhile, scientists are also struggling with the best way to measure the concept. As a marker of creativity, researchers often measure divergent thinking—the ability to generate a lot of possible solutions to a problem or question. The standard test of divergent thinking came from Guilford himself. Known as the alternate-uses test, the task asks participants to come up with novel uses for a common object such as a brick. But measures of divergent thinking haven’t been found to correlate well with real-world creativity. Does coming up with new uses for a brick imply a person will be good at abstract art or composing music or devising new methods for studying the brain? “It strikes me as using way too broad a brush,” Seli said. “I don’t think we measure creativity in the standard way that people think about creativity. As researchers, we need to be very clear about what we mean.”

One way to do that may be to move away from defining creativity based on a person’s creative output and focus instead on what’s going on in the brain, said Adam Green, PhD, a cognitive neuroscientist at Georgetown University and founder of the Society for the Neuroscience of Creativity . “The standard definition, that creativity is novel and useful, is a description of a product,” he noted. “By looking inward, we can see the process in action and start to identify the characteristics of creative thought. Neuroimaging is helping to shift the focus from creative product to creative process.”

That process seems to involve the coupling of disparate brain regions. Specifically, creativity often involves coordination between the cognitive control network, which is involved in executive functions such as planning and problem-solving, and the default mode network, which is most active during mind-wandering or daydreaming (Beaty, R. E., et al., Cerebral Cortex , Vol. 31, No. 10, 2021). The cooperation of those networks may be a unique feature of creativity, Green said. “These two systems are usually antagonistic. They rarely work together, but creativity seems to be one instance where they do.”

Green has also found evidence that an area called the frontopolar cortex, in the brain’s frontal lobes, is associated with creative thinking. And stimulating the area seems to boost creative abilities. He and his colleagues used transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) to stimulate the frontopolar cortex of participants as they tried to come up with novel analogies. Stimulating the area led participants to make analogies that were more semantically distant from one another—in other words, more creative ( Cerebral Cortex , Vol. 27, No. 4, 2017).

Green’s work suggests that targeting specific areas in the brain, either with neuromodulation or cognitive interventions, could enhance creativity. Yet no one is suggesting that a single brain region, or even a single neural network, is responsible for creative thought. “Creativity is not one system but many different mechanisms that, under ideal circumstances, work together in a seamless way,” Kounios said.

In search of the eureka moment

Creativity looks different from person to person. And even within one brain, there are different routes to a creative spark, Kounios explained. One involves what cognitive scientists call “System 1” (also called “Type 1”) processes: quick, unconscious thoughts—aha moments—that burst into consciousness. A second route involves “System 2” processes: thinking that is slow, deliberate, and conscious. “Creativity can use one or the other or a combination of the two,” he said. “You might use Type 1 thinking to generate ideas and Type 2 to critique and refine them.”

Which pathway a person uses might depend, in part, on their expertise. Kounios and his colleagues used electroencephalography (EEG) to examine what was happening in jazz musicians’ brains as they improvised on the piano. Then skilled jazz instructors rated those improvisations for creativity, and the researchers compared each musician’s most creative compositions. They found that for highly experienced musicians, the mechanisms used to generate creative ideas were largely automatic and unconscious, and they came from the left posterior part of the brain. Less-experienced pianists drew on more analytical, deliberative brain processes in the right frontal region to devise creative melodies, as Kounios and colleagues described in a special issue of NeuroImage on the neuroscience of creativity (Vol. 213, 2020). “It seems there are at least two pathways to get from where you are to a creative idea,” he said.

Coming up with an idea is only one part of the creative process. A painter needs to translate their vision to canvas. An inventor has to tinker with their concept to make a prototype that actually works. Still, the aha moment is an undeniably important component of the creative process. And science is beginning to illuminate those “lightbulb moments.”

Kounios examined the relationship between creative insight and the brain’s reward system by asking participants to solve anagrams in the lab. In people who were highly sensitive to rewards, a creative insight led to a burst of brain activity in the orbitofrontal cortex, the area of the brain that responds to basic pleasures like delicious food or addictive drugs ( NeuroImage , Vol. 214, 2020). That neural reward may explain, from an evolutionary standpoint, why humans seem driven to create, he said. “We seem wired to take pleasure in creative thoughts. There are neural rewards for thinking in a creative fashion, and that may be adaptive for our species.”

The rush you get from an aha moment might also signal that you’re onto something good, Schooler said. He and his colleagues studied these flashes of insight among creative writers and physicists. They surveyed the participants daily for two weeks, asking them to note their creative ideas and when they occurred. Participants reported that about a fifth of the most important ideas of the day happened when they were mind-wandering and not working on a task at hand ( Psychological Science , Vol. 30, No. 3, 2019). “These solutions were more likely to be associated with an aha moment and often overcoming an impasse of some sort,” Schooler said.

Six months later, the participants revisited those ideas and rated them for creative importance. This time, they rated their previous ideas as creative, but less important than they’d initially thought. That suggests that the spark of a eureka moment may not be a reliable clue that an idea has legs. “It seems like the aha experience may be a visceral marker of an important idea. But the aha experience can also inflate the meaningfulness of an idea that doesn’t have merit,” Schooler said. “We have to be careful of false ahas.”

Boosting your creativity

Much of the research in this realm has focused on creativity as a trait. Indeed, some people are naturally more creative than others. Creative individuals are more likely than others to possess the personality trait of openness. “Across different age groups, the best predictor of creativity is openness to new experiences,” said Anna Abraham, PhD, the E. Paul Torrance Professor and director of the Torrance Center for Creativity and Talent Development at the University of Georgia. “Creative people have the kind of curiosity that draws them toward learning new things and experiencing the world in new ways,” she said.

We can’t all be Thomas Edison or Maya Angelou. But creativity is also a state, and anyone can push themselves to be more creative. “Creativity is human capacity, and there’s always room for growth,” Runco said. A tolerant environment is often a necessary ingredient, he added. “Tolerant societies allow individuals to express themselves and explore new things. And as a parent or a teacher, you can model that creativity is valued and be open-minded when your child gives an answer you didn’t expect.”

One way to let your own creativity flow may be by tapping into your untethered mind. Seli is attempting to do so through his studies on hypnagogia. After pilot testing the idea on himself, he’s now working on a study that uses the sleep-tracking glove to explore creativity in a group of Duke undergrads. “In dream states, there seems to be connectivity between disparate ideas. You tend to link things together you normally wouldn’t, and this should lead to novel outcomes,” he said. “Neurally speaking, the idea is to increase connectivity between different areas of the brain.”

You don’t have to be asleep to forge those creative connections. Mind-wandering can also let the ideas flow. “Letting yourself daydream with a purpose, on a regular basis, might allow brain networks that don’t usually cooperate to literally form stronger connections,” Green said.

However, not all types of daydreams will get you there. Schooler found that people who engage in more personally meaningful daydreams (such as fantasizing about a future vacation or career change) report greater artistic achievement and more daily inspiration. People who are prone to fantastical daydreaming (such as inventing alternate realities or imaginary worlds) produced higher-quality creative writing in the lab and reported more daily creative behavior. But daydreams devoted to planning or problem-solving were not associated with creative behaviors ( Psychology of Aesthetics, Creativity, and the Arts , Vol. 15, No. 4, 2021).

It’s not just what you think about when you daydream, but where you are when you do it. Some research suggests spending time in nature can enhance creativity. That may be because of the natural world’s ability to restore attention, or perhaps it’s due to the tendency to let your mind wander when you’re in the great outdoors (Williams, K. J. H., et al., Journal of Environmental Psychology , Vol. 59, 2018). “A lot of creative figures go on walks in big, expansive environments. In a large space, your perceptual attention expands and your scope of thought also expands,” Kounios said. “That’s why working in a cubicle is bad for creativity. But working near a window can help.”

Wherever you choose to do it, fostering creativity requires time and effort. “People want the booster shot for creativity. But creativity isn’t something that comes magically. It’s a skill, and as with any new skill, the more you practice, the better you get,” Abraham said. In a not-yet-published study, she found three factors predicted peak originality in teenagers: openness to experience, intelligence, and, importantly, time spent engaged in creative hobbies. That is, taking the time to work on creative pursuits makes a difference. And the same is true for adults, she said. “Carve out time for yourself, figure out the conditions that are conducive to your creativity, and recognize that you need to keep pushing yourself. You won’t get to where you want to go if you don’t try.”

Those efforts can benefit your own sense of creative fulfillment and perhaps lead to rewards on an even grander scale. “I think everyday creativity is the most important kind,” Runco said. “If we can support the creativity of each and every individual, we’ll change the world.”

How to become more creative

1. Put in the work: People often think of creativity as a bolt of inspiration, like a lightbulb clicking on. But being creative in a particular domain—whether in the arts, in your work, or in your day-to-day life—is a skill. Carve out time to learn and practice.

2. Let your mind wander: Experts recommend “daydreaming with purpose.” Make opportunities to let your daydreams flow, while gently nudging them toward the creative challenge at hand. Some research suggests meditation may help people develop the habit of purposeful daydreaming.

3. Practice remote associations: Brainstorm ideas, jotting down whatever thoughts or notions come to you, no matter how wild. You can always edit later.

4. Go outside: Spending time in nature and wide-open spaces can expand your attention, enhance beneficial mind-wandering, and boost creativity.

5. Revisit your creative ideas: Aha moments can give you a high—but that rush might make you overestimate the merit of a creative idea. Don’t be afraid to revisit ideas to critique and tweak them later.

Further reading

Creativity: An introduction Kaufman, J. C., and Sternberg, R. J. (Eds.), Cambridge University Press, 2021

The eureka factor: Aha moments, creative insight, and the brain Kounios, J., & Beeman, M., Random House, 2015

Creativity anxiety: Evidence for anxiety that is specific to creative thinking, from STEM to the arts Daker, R. J., et al., Journal of Experimental Psychology: General , 2020

Predictors of creativity in young people: Using frequentist and Bayesian approaches in estimating the importance of individual and contextual factors Asquith, S. L., et al., Psychology of Aesthetics, Creativity, and the Arts , 2020

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Daphne Leprince-Ringuet Sanjana Varghese

Technology is changing what it means to be creative – here's how

We might be slow, prone to making errors and quick to tire, but humans still have the edge over technology when it comes to nuance and creativity. It's easy enough teaching a voice assistant to laugh, for example, but you'll need a human to tell you whether that laugh's creepy or endearing.

So how do you blend the human and the digital? At WIRED Live , some of world's smartest and most creative thinkers came together to explore what the future of humanity looks like. Here's the best of what we learned from a packed speaker lineup that included Andy Serkis, Hannah Fry and Jim Al-Khalili.

Technology is often the problem – not the answer

“As humans, we have a problem with over-trusting technology,” says Hannah Fry, associate professor at University College London’s Centre for Advanced Spatial Analysis . “But algorithms make mistakes. So, when you put an algorithm in a position of power, you have to trust that humans will have enough judgement to recognise its errors.”

This is particularly relevant in some US courtrooms, where AI is already being used to help determine sentences. And while this can fix human flaws, such as bias or inconsistency, it also has to be kept under tight human control. Where an algorithm’s mistake could lead to an unfair sentence, there is no space for blind over-reliance on technology.

Context is everything when it comes to voice assistants

One of the biggest challenges for the team behind the Amazon Alexa is making sure that the voice assistant doesn't come across as creepy – something the tech firm didn't get quite right earlier this year when users started reporting that Alexa was laughing at unexpected moments.

“This is a great example of a natural human feature that we successfully designed for Alexa – laughter – becoming creepy because it is used at the wrong time,” says Toni Reid, vice president of Alexa experience at Amazon. That is where the company’s next challenge lies: how to make sure that Alexa acts like a human would?

Reid explains that the key lies in predicting customer behaviour and adapting to their expectations. The goal is to learn to know what is natural in given moments: a user waking up in a hurry, for instance, may want an efficient assistant rather than a highly-personalised one. “It’s very easy to get it wrong,” says Reid. “You don’t want to surprise customers.”

Building trust is a delicate balancing act

Rachel Botsman, lecturer at Oxford University and author of In Tech We Trust points out that there’s a handful of ways we can measure trust. “There’s a formula, and it doesn’t matter who you’re trusting – Alexa, an Uber driver, your boss,” she says. “It’s the presence of these four measures – competence, reliability, integrity and benevolence.”

The flip side is responsibility, too. The havoc and change that the tech sector has wrought on modern society are unprecedented, and even the executives themselves couldn’t have known what was going to happen. But companies are more likely to stick around if they own up. “We have to make responsibility the new normal,” says Martha Lane Fox, who cofounded doteveryone, a digital think tank, and is a peer in the House of Lords. “All of society needs to come together and think about technology.”

Computers could learn a lot from human interactions

It’s easy to forget that just a few decades ago, computers were mostly used for military purposes, rather than surfing the Internet for memes or sending emails. Computers and computation have caused a dramatic shift in the fabric of society, as a new substance that we haven’t quite qualified the change of. Yet, as we’re so used to them now, we risk splitting up the world into “digital” and “real”, and don’t think critically about how we represent our physical world in the digital one.

This means changing the way that machines function, so that they operate like we do, by exchanging ideas and working together. “Even though things are connected logically to the rest of the world, this machine cannot really in any meaningful way connect to any other computer,” say John Underkoffler , a user interface expert and advisor for films such as Minority Report and Iron Man . Underkoffler’s company, Oblong Industries, has built a system which lets computers work collaboratively. “So we need critical dialogue about user interface, and what’s good and what’s bad. We have to put the world back into computation.”

By Matt Burgess

By Sachi Mulkey

By Andy Greenberg

By Matthew Gault

We're only just beginning to understand the impact of quantum physics

Recent research has shown that there may be overlap between quantum physics and biology. In other words, some mechanisms within life, such as photosynthesis, can be attributed to quantum physics. “Quantum biology is a whole new branch of science,” says theoretical physicist and author Jim Al-Khalili. “And it may well end up explaining how life is what it is. There is even speculation that quantum mechanics could explain consciousness.” And what this could mean for artificial intelligence, genetic engineering or neuroscience can only be left to the imagination.

Technology will turn all of us into actors

“If there is one thing that we do know for sure, it is that humans have a passion for stories. And that is not likely to end soon,” says the actor Andy Serkis. That's why Serkis, famous for his impersonation of Gollum in Lord of the Rings, created The Imaginarium Studios in 2011. Serkis and his team are interested in building an environment to drive interplay between emerging new delivery platforms for actors. And their latest partnership with Magic Leap is radically changing the dynamic of theatre, bringing performance-capture inside the viewer’s living room through virtual reality, and letting them interact directly with animated characters.

Spectators, therefore, are becoming an active part of the story they are watching, in a breakdown of the traditional rules of theatre. A development that Serkis sees as confirmation of his motto, which he has taken from Brazilian theatre practitioner Augusto Boal: “Anyone can do theatre, even actors, and theatre can be done everywhere, even in a theatre.”

Interactive storytelling is only getting started

Last year, CEO of Atlantic Productions Anthony Geffen teamed up with the London Science Museum to create a VR experience that lets users sit inside a space capsule as it descends down to earth at high-speed. Working with astronaut Tim Peake, his team ensured that every detail within the experience was accurate; and now the museum is touring underprivileged areas in the UK with its “VR experience bus” to let children see what it's like to be an astronaut.

By the sound of it, therefore, immersive storytelling is already a well-established craft. But not according to Geffen: “We are only ten per cent there on the journey,” he says. “We haven’t seen anything. The challenges are huge: lack of funding, lack of business models, and lack of skill.”

If you concentrate on the facts, the world isn't all doom and gloom

Our understanding of the world is often primed by extraordinary events, as Gapminder Foundation’s co-founder and vice president, Anna Rosling explains. Gapminder works on creating a fact-based framework that help us understand the world better, rather than letting our overdramatic brains exaggerate our worst tendencies. They created a fictional street called “Dollar Street”, which compares the living circumstances and items owned by families around the world. By doing this, Gapminder wanted to highlight the differences and similarities between people of different cultures, and demonstrate how the world has changed.

“We have to keep in mind that even if something is bad, it might still be better than it used to be,” explains Rosling. “It’s much better to take things one at a time - so maybe, when we’re looking at scary news, we can add a picture and a warning.”

Technology is the best when it’s sharable

In the northern Netherlands, a 32 kilometre dam on the side of a causeway plays an integral role in stopping the rest of the country from being submerged under water. Daan Roosegarde, a Dutch artist and designer, used the idea of taking infrastructure for granted to come up with a public art installation about climate change.

It involved projecting blue light in major city squares, at a height where water would rise without these dams. One night, 60,000 people showed up, and others come dressed up as mermaids. “It’s very interesting, what happens when tech jumps out of the computer screen,” he says. “We can create a collective experience. If you allow people a certain physical space, then you give them the mental space, and people start to occupy and personalise it.”

This article was originally published by WIRED UK

Matthew Gault

Joel Khalili

Will Knight

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Home / Samples / Art / Essay Sample: Does Technology Limit Creativity: Essay

Essay Sample: Does Technology Limit Creativity: Essay

Title: Does Technology Limit Creativity?

Introduction

In the contemporary world, technology has become an integral part of our daily lives. From smartphones to computers, artificial intelligence to virtual reality, technology has transformed the way we live, work, and communicate. While technology has brought about numerous benefits and innovations, it has also sparked a debate on whether it limits human creativity. This essay explores the complex relationship between technology and creativity, examining both the potential limitations and opportunities technology presents to creative thinking and expression.

Defining Creativity

Before delving into the impact of technology on creativity, it is crucial to define what we mean by “creativity.” Creativity is the ability to generate novel and valuable ideas, solutions, or expressions. It encompasses various domains, including art, literature, music, science, business, and more. Creativity often involves thinking outside the box, breaking established norms, and pushing boundaries. It is a fundamental human trait that has fueled progress and innovation throughout history.

Technology as a Tool

Technology, in its essence, is a tool created by humans to enhance various aspects of life. It is a means to an end, and its impact on creativity largely depends on how it is used. When used thoughtfully and strategically, technology can empower and amplify creativity in several ways.

• Access to Information and Inspiration: The internet and digital libraries provide creators with unprecedented access to vast amounts of information, art, and knowledge from across the globe. This exposure to diverse perspectives and ideas can stimulate creativity by offering fresh insights and inspiration.
• Collaboration and Communication: Technology facilitates collaboration among creatives regardless of their physical locations. Through video conferencing, file-sharing platforms, and social media, artists, scientists, and entrepreneurs can collaborate on projects, share ideas, and engage in constructive feedback, fostering creativity through collective efforts.
• Tools for Creation: Advancements in software and hardware have provided creators with powerful tools for expressing their ideas. Graphic design software, music production software, and 3D modeling tools have democratized creative expression, allowing individuals to bring their visions to life more easily than ever before.
• Automation and Efficiency: Automation of repetitive tasks through technology can free up time and mental energy for creative thinking. For instance, writers can use grammar-checking software to handle grammar and spelling issues, allowing them to focus on crafting compelling narratives.
• Experimentation: Technology enables creatives to experiment and iterate quickly. In fields like architecture, engineering, and product design, computer-aided simulations and modeling allow for rapid prototyping and testing, which can lead to innovative solutions.

Challenges to Creativity

While technology can certainly enhance creativity, it also presents challenges and potential limitations.

• Distraction and Information Overload: The constant influx of information and notifications from digital devices can overwhelm individuals and hinder their ability to concentrate and think deeply. This can impede creative thinking, as true innovation often requires periods of focused reflection.
• Standardization and Templates: Technology can sometimes promote conformity and standardization. In the creative arts, for instance, the use of pre-designed templates in graphic design or music composition software may lead to formulaic and uninspired creations if not used judiciously.
• Dependence on Algorithms: The prevalence of recommendation algorithms in online platforms can create “filter bubbles,” limiting exposure to diverse ideas and perspectives. This can lead to creative stagnation, as individuals are only exposed to content that aligns with their existing beliefs and interests.
• Loss of Tangibility: In fields like visual art and craftsmanship, the transition to digital mediums can lead to a loss of tactile and sensory experiences. While digital tools offer convenience, they may lack the tactile feedback and physicality that can enhance the creative process.
• Privacy and Security Concerns: The collection and use of personal data by technology companies can raise concerns about privacy, leading some individuals to self-censor their creative expressions out of fear of surveillance or backlash.

The Human Element

It is essential to remember that technology, in and of itself, does not possess creativity. Creativity is fundamentally a human attribute that arises from imagination, curiosity, and the ability to connect disparate ideas. Technology can assist and augment this innate human creativity, but it cannot replace it.

The Role of Education

To harness the positive aspects of technology while mitigating its potential limitations, education plays a crucial role. Educators must emphasize the importance of critical thinking, problem-solving, and creativity in a tech-driven world. They should teach students how to use technology as a tool for creative expression and exploration rather than a passive consumption device.

Encouraging a Balanced Approach

In conclusion, the relationship between technology and creativity is nuanced. While technology can both enhance and hinder creativity, its impact largely depends on how it is used and integrated into one’s creative process. To maximize its potential benefits, individuals must strike a balance between embracing technology as a tool and preserving the essential human element of creativity.

Ultimately, the most innovative and creative individuals will be those who understand how to leverage technology effectively while maintaining their unique human perspective and imagination. In this way, technology need not limit creativity but can instead serve as a powerful ally in the ongoing quest for creative expression and innovation in the modern world.

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The Internet is improving lives every day. It's giving entrepreneurs the power to fund their dreams via group-funding platforms, students the opportunity to learn new skills with professors and classmates remotely, and even making viewing your favorite TV show quick and simple.

Advanced technologies are having a greater impact on your mind than you may believe, however. Modern tools are also making you more creative.

Creativity — that enigmatic concept artists use to paint the next masterpiece or write the next great American novel — isn't some ambiguous product of the mind. It's a measurable quality that can be dampened or amplified using particular tools and scenarios. It may come as a shock to the average tech user, but dozens of technologies that have become widely available within the last decade or so are boosting creative processes more than you could imagine.

Out from Behind the Easel and into the Boardroom

We recognize that creativity isn't only useful to musicians and painters. Many analysts claim it's a key determinant in business success. It's how companies differentiate themselves — with the original thoughts and ideas of their employees. And those ideas usually aren't gathered from one standout employee who contributes a steady supply of "eureka" moments. They're concocted in boardrooms and email chains with dozens of people sharing ideas, giving feedback and deciding on the best route to proceed with.

So now, with the Apples and the Facebooks and Googles of the world shedding light on it, creativity has been realized as one of the most valuable assets in the business world. How exactly are corporations harnessing that quality and amplifying it within groups and business units? More than that, how are employees using the technology at their disposal to bolster individual creativity in their work?

The Three Components of Information Exchanging

That's a question Monica Garfield, PhD -- a computer information systems professor at Bentley University -- can answer. She has worked on numerous published papers that analyze the connection between creativity in groups and technology.

According to her findings, there are three components that have incredible potential for changing creative outcomes using electronic communication prevalent in today's business setting.

"We are all capable of being creative," Garfield said." With the use of the correct tools our innate skills can be enhanced and harnessed."

Parallelism: Allowing Everyone to 'Speak' at Once

Imagine you're in a meeting with 10 individuals discussing the strategy for a big project. During a face-to-face interaction, each person will only have so much time to share their ideas. Only one person can speak at once for order to be maintained, which means each person would only get six minutes at most to share their thoughts within one hour. A cap is placed on the amount of ideas that can be generated.

Take that meeting to an electronic space — for instance, a message board where ideas can be typed simultaneously — and the cap is lifted. Multiple people can share at once and more ideas can be generated in less time. Garfield's study shows this may be one way groups can increase participation, improve satisfaction and provide more ideas.

This method is already used in dozens of electronic contexts, including social media sites, Web forums, or even your typical group text message.

Anonymity: Sharing Ideas without Reservation

Speaking of Web forums, there are already massive online communities harnessing the power of anonymity to boost creative outcomes. YouTube, Tumblr, Imgur, Reddit, Twitter — they all have a generous portion of anonymous users sharing their ideas — for better or worse. Creating an account free of identifying factors allows users to add content without repercussion, to a certain extent.

The way anonymity increases creativity is by destroying the conventional barriers placed on contributors. While the shy creative may refrain from sharing an idea with a group in person, that same individual may feel comfortable using an anonymous moniker online to share thoughts, amateur poems or the like.

This trend may have downright weird outcomes in online communities, but it can also be applied to company think tanks using anonymous user profiles on an intranet service.

Group Memory: Driving Future Contributions Using Records from the Past

During almost every boardroom brainstorm, there should be one individual taking notes. How else would the group learn what ideas were pitched and what feedback was given? But in this scenario, only the note-taker can refer to the history of the discussion during the meeting — unless contributors have incredibly keen memories. Over hours of deliberating or several days of meetings, keeping track of every project detail is difficult, making it hard to generate new ideas while still taking old ones into account.

This is one reason students and professionals alike have begun using online tools like Google Docs to conduct meetings. The tool uses a live feed that shares ideas instantly with everyone involved. Thoughts and feedback are immediately documented for all to refer to, and focus can be shifted to generating new information.

While anonymity and parallelism can both help generate more ideas, improving group memory can assist in controlling the decision-making process, keeping contributors on track with a singular stream of thought and cataloging relevant feedback.

There are dozens of ways creative solutions are being shaped by the technology students and professionals surround themselves with, and that's absolutely necessary for building competitive companies.

"From healthcare to software companies, the pace of change and the necessity to innovate is growing exponentially," Garfield said. "Using the right tools and the right time can help companies meet the demands of today's marketplace."

New ideas are being shared, critiqued and improved at a lightning-fast pace. Being the most creative organization doesn't mean just having the right talent. You need to use the right technology, too.

Check out our Master Class on Creativity

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Creativity and technology in teaching and learning: a literature review of the uneasy space of implementation 

• Published: 11 January 2021
• Volume 69 , pages 2091–2108, ( 2021 )

Cite this article

• Danah Henriksen   ORCID: orcid.org/0000-0001-5109-6960 1 ,
• Edwin Creely 2 ,
• Michael Henderson 2 &
• Punya Mishra 1  

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Internationally, creativity is a widely discussed construct that is pivotal to educational practice and curriculum. It is often situated alongside technology as a key component of education futures. Despite the enthusiasm for integrating creativity with technologies in classrooms, there is a lack of common ground within and between disciplines and research about how creativity relates to technology in teaching and learning—especially in the uncertain space of classroom implementation. This article provides a critical thematic review of international literature on creativity and technology in the context of educational practice. We identify four essential domains that emerge from the literature and represent these in a conceptual model, based around: (1) Learning in regard to creativity, (2) Meanings of creativity, (3) Discourses that surround creativity, and (4) the Futures or impacts on creativity and education. Each of these clusters is contextualized in regard to emerging technologies and the developing scope of twenty-first century skills in classroom implementation. We offer conclusions and implications for research and practice.

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Henriksen, D., Creely, E., Henderson, M. et al. Creativity and technology in teaching and learning: a literature review of the uneasy space of implementation . Education Tech Research Dev 69 , 2091–2108 (2021). https://doi.org/10.1007/s11423-020-09912-z

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Is technology making us more creative?

While the web has facilitated a glut of unoriginal and trivial content, technology deserves some credit for lifting the barriers that inhibit creativity

C reativity is the ability to generate novel, useful ideas and innovation is the successful implementation of those ideas. With this in mind, it is tempting to suggest that technology has made us more creative: the digital revolution has clearly produced a large number of innovative products and services. Some of them have become multibillion pound companies and transformed a significant part of our lives. What these innovations have in common is that they level the gap between supply (of services or products) and consumer demand, much like with any effective entrepreneurial activity.

Aside from the obvious examples – Google, Airbnb, Uber, LinkedIn, Tripadvisor, Spotify and Whatsapp – there has been an explosion of creative activity in the technology space: there are over 3m apps , and 300 hours of YouTube video are uploaded every minute . According to some estimates , every two minutes we snap as many pictures as the entire population of the world did in the 1800s.

However, it would be naïve to imply that these activities are truly indicative of creativity, even if quantity does eventually lead to quality. For instance, the probability of taking a great photograph does increase when there are millions of Instagram pictures taken every day , and when 500m tweets are generated daily , it is highly probable that one or two will be funny.

Yet, much of the content people generate is trivial, unoriginal and forgettable. Prior to the internet it would have stayed in the minds of their authors, but our thoughts can now be broadcasted to the world as if they were worthy creations. The only thing that appears to have increased, rather substantially, is people’s self-perceived creativity: because they seem unable to filter out so many irrelevant ideas.

In fact, the web has done a great deal to kill people’s creativity. From the use of emoji in lieu of words, to the proliferation of pre-determined functions to express our views – liking, sharing, and, in some cases, disliking. These new universals of human interaction promote efficient – but lazy – behaviours so that we can devote more time to consuming more content.

Although user-generated content has been growing exponentially in the past decade, much of it is noise and the result is that valuable and trustworthy information is now harder to find. In an age of overabundance and exuberance were everything is freely available but knowledge is hard to cultivate, this paradox highlights the importance of the less is more philosophy of life.

Curiosity evolved to make sense of the world and help us master our environments. Our prehistorical ancestors must have benefitted from taking on as much information from their surrounding as they could, paying attention to everything and turning into the ultimate learning machine. Yet in an age of information glut, the curious mind is forced to ignore as much of the available data as it can, in order to consume only what is nutritious.

This resembles the evolution of food and eating: although our brains are still programmed to maximise caloric intake, as if food were still scarce, in most of the planet what’s adaptive (eg desirable and healthy) is the ability to resist rather than consume most of the available food, because it lacks real nutritional value and makes you fat.

That said, technology deserves some credit for lifting the institutional and bureaucratic barriers that often limit creative talent. In any area of creativity, creative products tended to be judged mostly by formal experts on the subject-matter. And as sensible as their views might be, they will also be affected by biases, politics and errors of judgment. This is why many of the greatest artists in history – from Johann Sebastian Bach to Vincent van Gogh to Franz Kafka – failed to achieve fame during their lifetime.

Today, creative merits are judged mostly by non-expert consumers and the power of formal institutions in determining what is and isn’t creative has diminished. The internet has lifted the wall between creators and the public, making creativity more meritocratic. This, of course, is assuming that the creative value of something can be determined consensually. If that is the case, then Psy , Dan Bilzerian and Katy Perry are the masters of our time.

Tomas Chamorro-Premuzic is professor of business psychology at University College London, visiting professor at Columbia University, and the CEO of Hogan Assessment Systems. He is co-founder of metaprofiling.com , and author of Confidence: The Surprising Truth about How Much you Really Need it

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• DOI: 10.1007/s11423-020-09912-z
• Corpus ID: 231580334

Creativity and technology in teaching and learning: a literature review of the uneasy space of implementation

• D. Henriksen , Edwin Creely , +1 author Punya Mishra
• Published in Educational technology… 11 January 2021
• Education, Computer Science, Engineering

50 Citations

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Technology is something that helps us and makes our work easier. It is something available everywhere so people can easily use it either in the form of an auto-rickshaw or a mobile. We search for something when we need it but nowadays, we rely on internet or other developed technologies and there are very few of us who really want to develop something new.

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8) Technology is responsible for hindering our imagination power.

9) Technology is making us addicted by serving our needs without any effort.

10) Technology does not provoke creativity it only enhances the existing idea.

Essay 1 (250 Words) – Is Technology Limiting Creativity?

Introduction

Development is good; either it is developing a nation or a technology. All of us want to live a peaceful life so we develop various technologies. Somehow, they are very helpful but it is also a belief that it is limiting our creativity in many ways.

Facts about Technology

• There are different types of technologies which have been developed in the recent decade, and it is growing day by day. Somewhere it has proved helpful whereas somehow it has also made people lazy.
• Technology has made our work easy and as a result, people don’t want to work hard.
• When you have more than 100 options of the same thing, than why will someone work hard for another new one.
• In a report, it has been shared that everyday people search more than 3.5 billion activities on Google. Imagine when there was no Google then either they have to search for another option or they would have their own idea to complete their task.
• There are different technologies and some are helpful in solving your questions where are some help us to play some games. When there were no video games people use to develop their own games. This shows that somehow technology has badly affected creativity.

We cannot think about living without technology, because it is everywhere either you have to take a shower or want to search a school for your child. It is everywhere, but it is up to us how much we use it and how we can limit its access. In different research it has been found that mobile phones are not good for infants, still, many children play like a toy with mobile phones. One should really think about these things and develop their own ideas to deal with it.

Essay 2 (400 Words) – How Technology is Making People Less Creative?

Creativity is something that cannot be thought of because it is an internal process. It contains our own ideas and also helps us in many ways. It helps us to develop new ideas, thoughts and etc. Creativity helps us to introduce new things; either it is a gadget or an idea. It helps us to think and develop our own things. It was an idea that Thomas Edison invented the bulb. So, I can say that creativity is the main source of developing technology.

How Technology has Affected Creativity?

What happens if you are served the same food every day? You will be fed up with it and you would like to have something new. Similarly, we need something new in every stream; like to wear, to read, new gadgets, etc.

• Creativity helps us in many ways as it helps us to solve our problems. Whenever we face a problem, we seek for help. And the person who solves our problem is the one who is really creative. After the growth of technology, rather than thinking on our own, we search on the internet and quickly find an answer. Somehow, I can say that technology has really affected our creativity.
• In the present era, if you want to make a project, you will simply Google it and will simply try to copy it. But when there were no internet people use to think of themselves and use to create something new and decent.
• Technology has made us lazy and we cannot imagine a single day without it. We are so much stuck to our smartphones that, we can’t think of anything without it.
• Creativity or a new idea is something we get when we analyze, we observe people, things, etc. But nowadays we don’t even have time for ourselves. All we need is our phone and a good internet connection. Dress designers also get their ideas from nature, or from an old tradition. But nowadays very few of us have time to ponder on the worldly things. Technology is forcing us to just copy and paste things.
• We cannot develop new things suddenly; it needs a lot of time, patience, attention, etc. But there are very few of us who have all these qualities. We can waste time on a phone but we can sit idle without doing anything only for an hour.

The more we learn the more we become able, to think, to do something new, etc. But nowadays different technologies provide things which are already present in society. So, have time for everything because one should know all either it is a technology or a process to develop a wheat farm. We can get creative ideas from anywhere.

Essay 3 (500 – 600 Words) – Technology and its Role in Creativity

Creativity is something when you don’t need an internet or a phone to think something new. If your ideas are influenced by a particular website then it is possible that it will not be a new one. Learning is a different thing but when you learn to create something new then it sounds different.

A creative person is someone who loves to bring out a new thing but nowadays very few of us have time to do so. We are so much stuck to our day to day work that we never try something new. We are getting used to technology and it can badly affect us.

What is Creativity?

Creativity is a new idea or way of thinking which is recognized by your name. For example, it was Newton who got the idea to investigate the reason behind why the apple fell down? Similarly, it was Words worth’s creative mind which gave us the famous character ‘Lucy’. So, it will be not wrong if I say creativity brings change and create new things.

It was the creative mind of Leonardo da Vinci that he draws the painting of Great Monalisa. Similarly, the new devices, gadgets, technologies all are the outcome of different creative minds. Creativity helps us to develop new things. When we need something, we think and try to fulfill our needs and, in this sequence, we develop something new.

Role of Technology in Creativity

It was a creative mind that gave birth to the internet and also other technologies. And now we are discussing the various aspects of technology in promoting or demoting creativity. Everything has some pros and cons depending on us what we adopt.

Some Positive Points

• Technology is really helpful in generating new ideas because when we want to make something, we need some information. For example, a car manufacturing factory has an engineer to take care of the engine whereas a color expert gives new and decent colours to his car. So, the owner should know about the engine section as well as the coloring section and these kinds of information can be easily found on the internet.
• You cannot explore the world or know people across the globe but if you have an option called the internet. You can search for whatever you want and know anything from any part of the world and get better ideas.
• Technology helps us in various ways and also inspires us which encourages us to bring some new ideas and thoughts.

Some Negative Points

• Technology has made us indolent and which never encourages us to do something new. Laziness is something that never allows you to progress.
• We have become used to some technologies like our phones, social media, etc. all these distract us, and when we have to submit our projects or assignments, rather having our own ideas we search it on the internet and complete our task quickly. This hinders us to think and develop new ideas.
• There was no technology when various famous inventions like electricity, the bulb, pencil, etc. came into existence. All were the creative ideas of some famous people. Nowadays people prefer to copy things rather having their own imagination.

It is our need which provokes us to invent something new. When a child will get all that he wants without any effort then how can he understand the importance of new inventions. So always inspire your child to do things on his own. Use a calculator when it is very much necessary or just to check your answer. Search the answers of a chapter in the book first then go for the internet. These small habits can bring a big change. So, use technology but in a limited way.

FAQs: Frequently Asked Questions on Is Technology limiting Creativity

Ans. Nikola Tesla, a researcher is considered the Father of Modern Technology.

Ans. Technology brought us various gadgets that are simplifying our daily life.

Ans. The word ‘Technophile’ is used for a person who loves and has an interest in technologies.

Ans. ‘Techne’ and ‘logos’ are the two Greek words forming the root of ‘Technology’.

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Essay Samples on Creativity

As always, it is easier to say than to do, especially if you have to pen an essay that describes being creative or what forces at play make students succeed, or what kind of secret tricks are used by musicians, artists, or athletes to achieve their great results. It does take hours of hard work, yet being creative is an important factor that is studied by most college professors as they aim to inspire students for thinking outside the box. Just remember about Steve Jobs, Elon Musk, and the other famous personalities that have reached success thanks to their creativity. As a small contribution, we recommend you to look at our creativity essay examples that will guide you through this particular task and will boost your brain as you write.

What Does Creativity Mean to You

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Best topics on Creativity

1. What Does Creativity Mean to You

2. Discussion on the Relationship Between Intelligence and Creativity

3. Do Schools Kill Creativity: the Issues of Music Education

4. Creative and Critical Thinking: Combining the Achievements of Thought

5. Culture, Art and Creativity: the Way They Are Related

6. The System Of Education: If I Could Change The World

7. The Role of Creative Industries in the United Kingdom

8. Comparing The Pros And Cons Of Books And Movies

9. Evolution Of The Concept Of Auteur Theory

10. Comparative Analysis of Spike Lee and Yoky Matsuoka

11. The UNESCO’s Efforts in the Department of Art Education

12. Uses of the Cartoon Illustration Style

13. What the Art of Origami Means to Me

14. The Wisdom of Creating Art: Origami

15. The Possibility of Doubling a Cube with Origami

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• The Impact of Digital Tools on Student Writing and How Writing is Taught in Schools

Table of Contents

• Part I: Introduction
• Part II: How Much, and What, do Today’s Middle and High School Students Write?
• Part III: Teachers See Digital Tools Affecting Student Writing in Myriad Ways
• Part IV: Teachers Assess Students on Specific Writing Skills
• Part V: Teaching Writing in the Digital Age

A survey of 2,462 Advanced Placement (AP) and National Writing Project (NWP) teachers finds that digital technologies are shaping student writing in myriad ways and have also become helpful tools for teaching writing to middle and high school students.  These teachers see the internet and digital technologies such as social networking sites, cell phones and texting, generally facilitating teens’ personal expression and creativity, broadening the audience for their written material, and encouraging teens to write more often in more formats than may have been the case in prior generations.  At the same time, they describe the unique challenges of teaching writing in the digital age, including the “creep” of informal style into formal writing assignments and the need to better educate students about issues such as plagiarism and fair use.

The AP and NWP teachers surveyed see today’s digital tools having tangible, beneficial impacts on student writing

Overall, these AP and NWP teachers see digital technologies benefitting student writing in several ways:

• 96% agree (including 52% who strongly agree) that digital technologies “allow students to share their work with a wider and more varied audience”
• 79% agree (23% strongly agree) that these tools “encourage greater collaboration among students”
• 78% agree (26% strongly agree) that digital technologies “encourage student creativity and personal expression”

The combined effect of these impacts, according to this group of AP and NWP teachers, is a greater investment among students in what they write and greater engagement in the writing process.

At the same time, they worry that students’ use of digital tools is having some undesirable effects on their writing, including the “creep” of informal language and style into formal writing

In focus groups, these AP and NWP teachers shared some concerns and challenges they face teaching writing in today’s digital environment.  Among them are:

• an increasingly ambiguous line between “formal” and “informal” writing and the tendency of some students to use informal language and style in formal writing assignments
• the increasing need to educate students about writing for different audiences using different “voices” and “registers”
• the general cultural emphasis on truncated forms of expression, which some feel are hindering students willingness and ability to write longer texts and to think critically about complicated topics
• disparate access to and skill with digital tools among their students
• challenging the “digital tool as toy” approach many students develop in their introduction to digital tools as young children

Survey results reflect many of these concerns, though teachers are sometimes divided on the role digital tools play in these trends.  Specifically:

• 68% say that digital tools make students more likely—as opposed to less likely or having no impact—to take shortcuts and not put effort into their writing
• 46% say these tools make students more likely to “write too fast and be careless”
• Yet, while 40% say today’s digital technologies make students more likely to “use poor spelling and grammar” another 38% say they make students LESS likely to do this

Overall, these AP and NWP teachers give their students’ writing skills modest marks, and see areas that need attention

Asked to assess their students’ performance on nine specific writing skills, AP and NWP tended to rate their students “good” or “fair” as opposed to “excellent” or “very good.”  Students were given the best ratings on their ability to “effectively organize and structure writing assignments” with 24% of teachers describing their students as “excellent” or “very good” in this area. Students received similar ratings on their ability to “understand and consider multiple viewpoints on a particular topic or issue.”  But ratings were less positive for synthesizing material into a cohesive piece of work, using appropriate tone and style, and constructing a strong argument.

These AP and NWP teachers gave students the lowest ratings when it comes to “navigating issues of fair use and copyright in composition” and “reading and digesting long or complicated texts.”  On both measures, more than two-thirds of these teachers rated students “fair” or “poor.”

Majorities of these teachers incorporate lessons about fair use, copyright, plagiarism, and citation in their teaching to address students’ deficiencies in these areas

In addition to giving students low ratings on their understanding of fair use and copyright, a majority of AP and NWP teachers also say students are not performing well when it comes to “appropriately citing and/or referencing content” in their work.  This is fairly common concern among the teachers in the study, who note how easy it is for students today to copy and paste others’ work into their own and how difficult it often is to determine the actual source of much of the content they find online.  Reflecting how critical these teachers view these skills:

• 88% (across all subjects) spend class time “discussing with students the concepts of citation and plagiarism”
• 75% (across all subjects) spend class time “discussing with students the concepts of fair use and copyright”

A plurality of AP and NWP teachers across all subjects say digital tools make teaching writing easier

Despite some challenges, 50% of these teachers (across all subjects) say the internet and digital tools make it easier for them to teach writing, while just 18% say digital technologies make teaching writing more difficult.  The remaining 31% see no real impact.

Positive perceptions of the potential for digital tools to aid educators in teaching writing are reflected in practice:

• 52% of AP and NWP teachers say they or their students use interactive whiteboards in their classes
• 40% have students share their work on wikis, websites or blogs
• 36% have students edit or revise their own work and 29% have students edit others’ work using collaborative web-based tools such as GoogleDocs

In focus groups, teachers gave a multitude of examples of the value of these collaborative tools, not only in teaching more technical aspects of writing but also in being able to “see their students thinking” and work alongside students in the writing process.  Moreover, 56% say digital tools make their students more likely to write well because they can revise their work easily.

These middle and high school teachers continue to place tremendous value on “formal writing”

While they see writing forms and styles expanding in the digital world, AP and NWP teachers continue to place tremendous value on “formal writing” and try to use digital tools to impart fundamental writing skills they feel students need.  Nine in ten (92%) describe formal writing assignments as an ��essential” part of the learning process, and 91% say that “writing effectively” is an “essential” skill students need for future success.

More than half (58%) have students write short essays or responses on a weekly basis, and 77% assigned at least one research paper during the 2011-2012 academic year.  In addition, 41% of AP and NWP teachers have students write weekly journal entries, and 78% had their students create a multimedia or mixed media piece in the academic year prior to the survey.

Almost all AP and NWP teachers surveyed (94%) encourage students to do some of their writing by hand

Alongside the use of digital tools to promote better writing, almost all AP and NWP teachers surveyed say they encourage their students to do at least some writing by hand.  Their reasons are varied, but many teachers noted that because students are required to write by hand on standardized tests, it is a critical skill for them to have.  This is particularly true for AP teachers, who must prepare students to take AP exams with pencil and paper.  Other teachers say they feel students do more active thinking, synthesizing, and editing when writing by hand, and writing by hand discourages any temptation to copy and paste others’ work.

About this Study

The basics of the survey.

These are among the main findings of an online survey of a non-probability sample of 2,462 middle and high school teachers currently teaching in the U.S., Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands, conducted between March 7 and April 23, 2012.  Some 1,750 of the teachers are drawn from a sample of advanced placement (AP) high school teachers, while the remaining 712 are from a sample of National Writing Project teachers.  Survey findings are complemented by insights from a series of online and in-person focus groups with middle and high school teachers and students in grades 9-12, conducted between November, 2011 and February, 2012.

This particular sample is quite diverse geographically, by subject matter taught, and by school size and community characteristics.  But it skews towards educators who teach some of the most academically successful students in the country. Thus, the findings reported here reflect the realities of their special place in American education, and are not necessarily representative of all teachers in all schools. At the same time, these findings are especially powerful given that these teachers’ observations and judgments emerge from some of the nation’s most advanced classrooms.

In addition to the survey, Pew Internet conducted a series of online and offline focus groups with middle and high school teachers and some of their students and their voices are included in this report.

The study was designed to explore teachers’ views of the ways today’s digital environment is shaping the research and writing habits of middle and high school students, as well as teachers’ own technology use and their efforts to incorporate new digital tools into their classrooms.

About the data collection

Data collection was conducted in two phases.  In phase one, Pew Internet conducted two online and one in-person focus group with middle and high school teachers; focus group participants included Advanced Placement (AP) teachers, teachers who had participated in the National Writing Project’s Summer Institute (NWP), as well as teachers at a College Board school in the Northeast U.S.  Two in-person focus groups were also conducted with students in grades 9-12 from the same College Board school.   The goal of these discussions was to hear teachers and students talk about, in their own words, the different ways they feel digital technologies such as the internet, search engines, social media, and cell phones are shaping students’ research and writing habits and skills.  Teachers were asked to speak in depth about teaching research and writing to middle and high school students today, the challenges they encounter, and how they incorporate digital technologies into their classrooms and assignments.

Focus group discussions were instrumental in developing a 30-minute online survey, which was administered in phase two of the research to a national sample of middle and high school teachers.  The survey results reported here are based on a non-probability sample of 2,462 middle and high school teachers currently teaching in the U.S., Puerto Rico, and the U.S. Virgin Islands.  Of these 2,462 teachers, 2,067 completed the entire survey; all percentages reported are based on those answering each question.  The sample is not a probability sample of all teachers because it was not practical to assemble a sampling frame of this population. Instead, two large lists of teachers were assembled: one included 42,879 AP teachers who had agreed to allow the College Board to contact them (about one-third of all AP teachers), while the other was a list of 5,869 teachers who participated in the National Writing Project’s Summer Institute during 2007-2011 and who were not already part of the AP sample. A stratified random sample of 16,721 AP teachers was drawn from the AP teacher list, based on subject taught, state, and grade level, while all members of the NWP list were included in the final sample.

The online survey was conducted from March 7–April 23, 2012.  More details on how the survey and focus groups were conducted are included in the Methodology section at the end of this report, along with focus group discussion guides and the survey instrument.

There are several important ways the teachers who participated in the survey are unique, which should be considered when interpreting the results reported here.  First, 95% of the teachers who participated in the survey teach in public schools, thus the findings reported here reflect that environment almost exclusively.  In addition, almost one-third of the sample (NWP Summer Institute teachers) has received extensive training in how to effectively teach writing in today’s digital environment.  The National Writing Project’s mission is to provide professional development, resources and support to teachers to improve the teaching of writing in today’s schools.   The NWP teachers included here are what the organization terms “teacher-consultants” who have attended the Summer Institute and provide local leadership to other teachers.  Research has shown significant gains in the writing performance of students who are taught by these teachers. 1

Moreover, the majority of teachers participating in the survey (56%) currently teach AP, honors, and/or accelerated courses, thus the population of middle and high school students they work with skews heavily toward the highest achievers.  These teachers and their students may have resources and support available to them—particularly in terms of specialized training and access to digital tools—that are not available in all educational settings.  Thus, the population of teachers participating in this research might best be considered “leading edge teachers” who are actively involved with the College Board and/or the National Writing Project and are therefore beneficiaries of resources and training not common to all teachers.  It is likely that teachers in this study are developing some of the more innovative pedagogical approaches to teaching research and writing in today’s digital environment, and are incorporating classroom technology in ways that are not typical of the entire population of middle and high school teachers in the U.S.  Survey findings represent the attitudes and behaviors of this particular group of teachers only, and are not representative of the entire population of U.S. middle and high school teachers.

Every effort was made to administer the survey to as broad a group of educators as possible from the sample files being used.  As a group, the 2,462 teachers participating in the survey comprise a wide range of subject areas, experience levels, geographic regions, school type and socioeconomic level, and community type (detailed sample characteristics are available in the Methods section of this report).  The sample includes teachers from all 50 states, Puerto Rico, and the U.S. Virgin Islands.  All teachers who participated in the survey teach in physical schools and classrooms, as opposed to teaching online or virtual courses.

English/language arts teachers make up a significant portion of the sample (36%), reflecting the intentional design of the study, but history, social science, math, science, foreign language, art, and music teachers are also represented.  About one in ten teachers participating in the survey are middle school teachers, while 91% currently teach grades 9-12.  There is wide distribution across school size and students’ socioeconomic status, though half of the teachers participating in the survey report teaching in a small city or suburb.  There is also a wide distribution in the age and experience levels of participating teachers.  The survey sample is 71% female.

About the Pew Research Center’s Internet & American Life Project

The Pew Research Center’s Internet & American Life Project is one of seven projects that make up the Pew Research Center, a nonpartisan, nonprofit “fact tank” that provides information on the issues, attitudes and trends shaping America and the world. The Project produces reports exploring the impact of the internet on families, communities, work and home, daily life, education, health care, and civic and political life. The Pew Internet Project takes no positions on policy issues related to the internet or other communications technologies. It does not endorse technologies, industry sectors, companies, nonprofit organizations, or individuals. While we thank our research partners for their helpful guidance, the Pew Internet Project had full control over the design, implementation, analysis and writing of this survey and report.

About the National Writing Project

The National Writing Project (NWP) is a nationwide network of educators working together to improve the teaching of writing in the nation’s schools and in other settings. NWP provides high-quality professional development programs to teachers in a variety of disciplines and at all levels, from early childhood through university. Through its nearly 200 university-based sites serving all 50 states, the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands, NWP develops the leadership, programs and research needed for teachers to help students become successful writers and learners. For more information, visit www.nwp.org .

• More specific information on this population of teachers, the training they receive, and the outcomes of their students are available at the National Writing Project website at www.nwp.org . ↩

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Correlation Between Technology & Creativity: Is Technology Killing Creativity?

Is technology nipping creativity in the bud? Will technology come out as the villain, or will creativity prove its might? Don't miss out on the drama! 

But beware, you may just end up rethinking your stance on technology.

Last Updated On : 19 July, 2023

Table of Contents

Technology is a distraction for students , an informational and educational resource for kids , the notorious case of copying and pasting, developers no longer code, misguided due to fake and irrelevant data, video games are dulling the minds and making them violent, the final verdict, how has technology killed creativity, how is technology affecting creativity, is technology killing human creativity and imagination, is technology making us more or less creative, how technology enhances creativity, is technology killing our creativity essay.

Indubitably, technology has made the world a global village. All the credit goes to globalization, which is increasing with every passing day.

In the same way, technology and creativity are strongly related to each other. The speed at which globalization burgeoned during COVID-19 is just one of the many manifestations of how people are reaping their benefits. 

Similarly, the benefits of technology in our routine life are indisputable and limitless. Technology has not only helped people to cover distances of thousands of kilometers in a matter of hours, but it has also enabled them to communicate with each other through audio as well as video calls.

Specifically, the role of artificial intelligence and big data can not be underestimated as they are very important in the up-gradation of different operations in the healthcare, education, and eCommerce sector.  From the current perspective, had the technology not been there, the impacts of Covid-19 would have been the deadliest in human history. 

Yet, there exists an opinion that posits that technology is killing creativity in people. Is it really the case? Let’s probe into this to identify if technology is killing or, antithetically, empowering one’s creativity.

How Technology Kills Creativity And What To Do About It?

With push notifications chiming from smartphones or spending 6 hours in front of a laptop, technology is killing human imagination, creativity, and productivity. It is turning humans into sloths because the internet is providing them with every piece of information on a silver platter.

People who believe technology is killing creativity in people of all ages, especially kids, argue that daydreaming is necessary to boost one’s creative mind space. However, when kids keep their heads tied to screens most of the time, they fall short of daydreaming abilities, which belittles their creativity.

To put it differently, technology can be a real party pooper for kids! With all the notifications, games, and videos, they have a personal entertainment center in their pockets. But all that fun can quickly turn into a distraction disaster. 

Kids may find themselves spending all their playtime on their devices and forget about playing outside or hanging with friends. And don't even get us started on the blue light affecting their sleep patterns!

Too much use of technology kills creativity in children. It's like technology is giving them a permanent case of the "I can't put this down"s. But hey, it's not all bad news! As long as kids balance their tech time with other activities, they can still have all the fun without missing out on the important stuff.

As identified by the Academy of Management , the depth and diversity of the knowledge base abundantly help in sharpening the creative skills of a person. And the Internet is a great source to learn different types of knowledge from.

People can get different and diverse ideas and inspirations from the internet and improve their creative skills altogether. Hence, technology and creativity go hand in hand with each other. 

Is technology limiting creativity? Hell, yes! 

Why? Because people love to take shortcuts instead of working smart. According to a scientific study , creativity works on the principle of using it or losing it. A person who uses an electronic device for long hours struggles to be creative, even working in a creative job role.

Hence, they turn to Google and implement copy-paste tactics. Simultaneously, technology is killing creativity in essays. 

Technology destroying creativity has become a violation, and everyone has turned a blind eye to it. Like a tempting yet darkest alley, it provides easy access to search for anything and everything by just typing in a query on Google.

People are capable of posting anything on the internet, and on the other hand, already-built templates and academic information can too be fetched easily. This increases the proportion of copying and undermines the originality of one’s work. 

With that in mind, the internet kills creativity debate, being a real copycat factory! With all the information just a click away, it's easy for some people to take someone else's ideas and pass them off as their own.

Social media can also be a hotbed of imitation. Some folks use it to show off their creativity, while others just copy what's popular without putting in the thought. You've probably seen plenty of videos, photos, and TikToks that are just copies of someone else's original idea, all in the name of going viral.

And let's not forget about all the art designs that get stolen. Sure, having access to information is great for getting things done, but it can also mean that some people just copy instead of creating their own unique work.

A communication hub for like-minded people

I’ll ask the question again, “Is technology killing creativity?”

In the case of no, it can be argued! Technology nurtures creativity by providing channels and platforms to spread knowledge and educate others. Creative minds have filled platforms like YouTube, Facebook, and Instagram content. People who struggle with creativity can watch and ameliorate their creative skills. 

Technology is like a magic wand for connecting with the world. It lets us communicate and connect in ways we never even dreamed of. It's also become a big part of how we work, learn, play, shop, and live our daily lives.

Thanks to tech, sharing ideas has never been easier. You can connect with like-minded folks with just a few taps. Just think of all those Facebook groups and forums where people exchange experiences and opinions on all sorts of topics. Therefore, technology killing creativity can be treated as a myth. 

This kind of communication and sharing can be a real boost for creativity. When people share their experiences, they learn from each other and can use that knowledge to develop new and innovative ideas.

And let's not forget about all the problem-solving that goes on in social networks. People love to share their problems and life details, which can lead to the creation of new ideas that can help solve someone's problem.

Recommended: The Benefits of a Digital Fleet Management System

Today’s digital era suggests that technology kills creativity debate and brainstorming sessions in development teams. A more vivid and widely observed example can be the decrementing creativity in web design and development. The major reason behind this is the low or no-code platforms, templates, the grid, and other rules that inhibit web design.

The all-time famous ChatGPT and AlphaCode have flooded their laptop screens and obliterated their problem-solving and critical-thinking skills. Even though these templates and ready-to-use components make the job much easier, many still argue that it is denigrating creativity. 

Reducing time waste and errors 

Is technology killing our creativity? Don't you believe the rumors?

Although these arguments seem very scientific and genuine, the arguments on the other side outshine them. Because technology is not killing creativity but enhancing it. Nowadays, creativity has become more dependent upon one’s imagination. 

It's more like technology is the trusty sidekick of a superhero developer. It helps them get their job done faster and with more ease, but it can't replace the intelligence and creativity that only a human can bring to the table.

So, you see, developers don't need to fear becoming obsolete. They just need to embrace technology and creativity framework as their new partner in crime...er...code!

Is technology killing creativity in group discussions? Yes. 

Are people relying too much on the internet for information? Definitely. 

The Internet is like having an all-you-can-eat buffet, but instead of delicious food, it's overflowing with information. It can be tempting to stuff yourself silly with all that knowledge, but it's important to take breaks and digest everything properly.

Otherwise, you might end up with a bad case of "information indigestion" and find yourself constantly scrolling and searching, unable to distinguish the truth from the tall tales. 

And let's not forget the dangers of "fake news" — it's like taking a bite of the dessert, thinking it's chocolate cake, only to find out its tofu.

Creating a balance and finding a credible source

The Internet has provided people with gluts of data and information. The availability of information does not put a cap on one’s creativity but boosts it. Instead, with the availability of more information, people can make more creative and scientifically supported decisions. 

So, it's important to be mindful of the information we consume and to take breaks from the screen to maintain a healthy balance in our lives. After all, a well-informed mind is great, but a well-rested one is even better!

When the first video game was introduced, the world thought it would damage the very essence of creativity in people. The adverse impact of technology on the creativity and sensitivity of individuals was a hot topic then. 

Let’s not forget the love affair with violence, bloodshed, and assassin games. It's like courting danger in the digital world. But beware, my friend, for this liaison may have adverse effects on your mind.

Studies show that playing such games can lead to an increase in aggressive tendencies, emotions, and behaviors. It's like giving your inner monster a megaphone and letting it take center stage. And just like a monster, it can be difficult to quiet it down once it's been awoken.

Moreover, excessive exposure to violence can lead to desensitization, turning us into stone-hearted individuals, unable to feel empathy for our fellow human beings. And let's not forget the impact it has on our view of reality - it's like replacing the glasses of compassion with the glasses of violence, seeing every problem as an opportunity for conflict.

Promoting Simulating Games

So, why not choose to play strategy and simulation games that promote positive values, such as teamwork and cooperation, instead of courting danger in the virtual world? After all, the world needs more heroes and fewer assassins.

It has been assessed by Inc. that video games play an important role in intensifying one’s creative aura. Games like Clash of Clans, Clash Royale, and Call of Duty help players to improve their reflexes. Concurrently, it strengthened their decision-making power too. 

In terms of games, does technology kill creativity? No, it does not. Games enhance the strategic and critical thinking skills of individuals, letting them explore the world from a new perspective.

If you want to learn about the IT Industry, then you are in the right place.  This IT blog section  is for all techies and IT enthusiasts.

There is no doubt that technology is not perfect. Nothing in this world is perfect. It is as true as the earth rotating on its axis.

Similarly, the concerns of people about technology and creativity are not wrong, but they are subjective. The aim of technology is not to kill the creativity of people but to enhance their productivity and sharpen their creativity.

It all depends on how you use it. If the usage is appropriate, people can get highly encouraging results and vice versa. Therefore, blaming technology for diminishing creativity may not be completely valid.

Frequently Asked Questions 

No, technology has not killed creativity. Instead, it has empowered it. 

The impact of technology on creativity is complex and depends on how individuals choose to use it. While technology can provide new tools and opportunities for creativity, it's up to individuals to use it in ways that enhance their creativity and encourage originality.

No, technology is not killing human creativity and imagination. While technology can sometimes negatively affect creativity and imagination, such as the saturation of similar ideas and distractions, it also provides new tools and resources that can enhance and inspire creativity and imagination.

There is no Yes or No answer to this. Technology is augmenting our creativity by providing us with tools that reduce time waste. However, too much usage of technology can make humans dependent on it. Therefore, people must regulate their use of technology carefully. 

Technology has enhanced creativity in more than one way: 

• Tools and software
• Access to information and resources 
• Smooth communication 
• AI-based Applications

There is no straightforward answer to whether technology is killing our creativity. While technology certainly provides many benefits and has dramatically changed the way we live, work, and communicate, it also has the potential to limit our creative abilities.

On the one hand, technology provides access to vast amounts of information, allowing us to research and expand our knowledge base easily. On the other hand, it can also foster a dependency on algorithms and predetermined pathways, leading to a decrease in independent thinking and problem-solving skills.

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Essay on Impact Of Technology On Youth

Students are often asked to write an essay on Impact Of Technology On Youth in their schools and colleges. And if you’re also looking for the same, we have created 100-word, 250-word, and 500-word essays on the topic.

Let’s take a look…

100 Words Essay on Impact Of Technology On Youth

Learning and education.

Technology has changed how young people learn. Now, with a computer or tablet, students can find information quickly and watch educational videos. This makes learning fun and easy. But, sometimes they might get distracted by games or social media.

Communication and Relationships

Young people use technology to chat with friends and make new ones online. This is great for staying in touch, but it’s important to also spend time with friends and family in person to build strong relationships.

Health and Well-being

Too much screen time can hurt young people’s eyes and make them less active. It’s important to balance time spent on devices with outdoor activities and exercise for a healthy lifestyle.

Creativity and Entertainment

Technology offers many ways to be creative, like making videos or music. It also provides lots of entertainment options. But it’s good to also enjoy hobbies that don’t involve screens, like reading or sports.

Safety and Privacy

250 words essay on impact of technology on youth, technology shapes learning.

Technology has changed the way young people learn. In schools, smartboards have replaced chalkboards, and students use tablets instead of heavy books. This makes learning more interactive and fun. They can access a world of information with just a click, making it easier to do homework and projects.

Young people today use social media and messaging apps to talk to friends and family. This means they can keep in touch with people far away, but it also means they might spend less time talking face to face. Some say this makes relationships weaker, while others think it helps them stay connected more easily.

Health and Lifestyle

Because of technology, many kids spend a lot of time sitting with their phones or playing video games. This can lead to less exercise and, sometimes, health issues. On the bright side, there are apps and games that encourage staying active and eating healthy, showing that technology can also help with good habits.

The internet can be risky for young people. They might see things that are not suitable for their age or share personal information without knowing the dangers. Parents and teachers try to teach them how to use the internet safely to protect their privacy.

In conclusion, technology has a big effect on young people. It helps them learn and stay in touch but also brings challenges like staying active and safe online. It’s important for kids to use technology in a balanced way and for adults to guide them.

500 Words Essay on Impact Of Technology On Youth

The role of technology in learning.

Before technology became widespread, young people would spend time together by meeting face-to-face. These days, smartphones and social media let them chat, share photos, and stay connected with friends and family even when far apart. This can be great for keeping in touch, but it also means that some kids might spend less time playing outside or talking in person. It’s important for them to balance their screen time with real-world interactions.

Health and Wellbeing

Technology can affect young people’s health in different ways. On the positive side, there are many apps and devices that help them stay active and track their health. For example, a fitness tracker can encourage a kid to move more and reach daily step goals. On the flip side, too much screen time can lead to less sleep, eye strain, and sometimes less physical activity. It’s good for youth to find a balance between tech use and physical health.

Entertainment and Creativity

While technology brings many benefits, it also comes with risks. Young people might not always know how to stay safe online. They might share personal information without realizing it could be dangerous. Teaching kids about online safety and privacy is very important. They should learn to create strong passwords, think before they post, and know who to talk to if they feel uncomfortable about something online.

In conclusion, technology has a big impact on young people’s lives. It helps them learn, stay in touch with others, and have fun. At the same time, it’s important for them to use technology in a healthy and safe way. By understanding both the good and the not-so-good sides of technology, young people can make smart choices and use technology to help them grow and succeed. Parents and teachers can support them by guiding them on how to use technology wisely and responsibly.

Apart from these, you can look at all the essays by clicking here .

Happy studying!

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34 Compelling Compare and Contrast Essay Examples

Topics cover education, technology, pop culture, sports, animals, and more.

Do your writers need some inspiration? If you’re teaching students to write a compare and contrast essay, a strong example is an invaluable tool. This round-up of our favorite compare and contrast essays covers a range of topics and grade levels, so no matter your students’ interests or ages, you’ll always have a helpful example to share. You’ll find links to full essays about education, technology, pop culture, sports, animals, and more. (Need compare-and-contrast essay topic ideas? Check out our big list of compare and contrast essay topics! )

What is a compare and contrast essay?

• Education and parenting essays
• Technology essays
• Pop culture essays
• Historical and political essays
• Sports essays
• Lifestyle essays
• Healthcare essays
• Animal essays

When choosing a compare and contrast essay example to include on this list, we considered the structure. A strong compare and contrast essay begins with an introductory paragraph that includes background context and a strong thesis. Next, the body includes paragraphs that explore the similarities and differences. Finally, a concluding paragraph restates the thesis, draws any necessary inferences, and asks any remaining questions.

A compare and contrast essay example can be an opinion piece comparing two things and making a conclusion about which is better. For example, “Is Tom Brady really the GOAT?” It can also help consumers decide which product is better suited to them. Should you keep your subscription to Hulu or Netflix? Should you stick with Apple or explore Android? Here’s our list of compare and contrast essay samples categorized by subject.

Education and Parenting Compare and Contrast Essay Examples

Private school vs. public school.

Sample lines: “Deciding whether to send a child to public or private school can be a tough choice for parents. … Data on whether public or private education is better can be challenging to find and difficult to understand, and the cost of private school can be daunting. … According to the most recent data from the National Center for Education Statistics, public schools still attract far more students than private schools, with 50.7 million students attending public school as of 2018. Private school enrollment in the fall of 2017 was 5.7 million students, a number that is down from 6 million in 1999.”

Read the full essay: Private School vs. Public School at U.S. News and World Report

Homeschool vs. Public School: How Home Schooling Will Change Public Education

Sample lines: “Home schooling, not a present threat to public education, is nonetheless one of the forces that will change it. If the high estimates of the number of children in home schools (1.2 million) is correct, then the home-schooling universe is larger than the New York City public school system and roughly the size of the Los Angeles and Chicago public school systems combined. … Critics charge that three things are wrong with home schooling: harm to students academically; harm to society by producing students who are ill-prepared to function as democratic citizens and participants in a modern economy; and harm to public education, making it more difficult for other parents to educate their children. … It is time to ask whether home schooling, charters, and vouchers should be considered parts of a broad repertoire of methods that we as a society use to educate our children.”

Read the full essay: Homeschool vs. Public School: How Home Schooling Will Change Public Education at Brookings

Which parenting style is right for you?

Sample lines: “The three main types of parenting are on a type of ‘sliding scale’ of parenting, with permissive parenting as the least strict type of parenting. Permissive parenting typically has very few rules, while authoritarian parenting is thought of as a very strict, rule-driven type of parenting.”

Read the full essay: What Is Authoritative Parenting? at Healthline

Masked Education? The Benefits and Burdens of Wearing Face Masks in Schools During the Pandemic

Sample lines: “Face masks can prevent the spread of the virus SARS-CoV-2. … However, covering the lower half of the face reduces the ability to communicate. Positive emotions become less recognizable, and negative emotions are amplified. Emotional mimicry, contagion, and emotionality in general are reduced and (thereby) bonding between teachers and learners, group cohesion, and learning—of which emotions are a major driver. The benefits and burdens of face masks in schools should be seriously considered and made obvious and clear to teachers and students.”

Read the full essay: Masked Education? The Benefits and Burdens of Wearing Face Masks in Schools During the Pandemic at National Library of Medicine

To Ban or Not: What Should We Really Make of Book Bans?

Sample lines: “In recent years, book bans have soared in schools, reaching an all-time high in fall 2022. … The challenge of balancing parent concerns about ‘age appropriateness’ against the imperative of preparing students to be informed citizens is still on the minds of many educators today. … Such curricular decision-making  should  be left to the professionals, argues English/language arts instructional specialist Miriam Plotinsky. ‘Examining texts for their appropriateness is not a job that noneducators are trained to do,’ she wrote last year, as the national debate over censorship resurged with the news that a Tennessee district banned the graphic novel  Maus  just days before Holocaust Remembrance Day.”

Read the full essay: To Ban or Not: What Should We Really Make of Book Bans? at Education Week

Technology Compare and Contrast Essay Examples

Netflix vs. hulu 2023: which is the best streaming service.

Sample lines: “Netflix fans will point to its high-quality originals, including  The Witcher ,  Stranger Things ,  Emily in Paris ,  Ozark , and more, as well as a wide variety of documentaries like  Cheer ,  The Last Dance ,  My Octopus Teacher , and many others. It also boasts a much larger subscription base, with more than 222 million subscribers compared to Hulu’s 44 million. Hulu, on the other hand, offers a variety of extras such as HBO and Showtime—content that’s unavailable on Netflix. Its price tag is also cheaper than the competition, with its $7/mo. starting price, which is a bit more palatable than Netflix’s $10/mo. starting price.”

Read the full essay: Netflix vs. Hulu 2023: Which is the best streaming service? at TV Guide

Kindle vs. Hardcover: Which is easier on the eyes?

Sample lines: “In the past, we would have to drag around heavy books if we were really into reading. Now, we can have all of those books, and many more, stored in one handy little device that can easily be stuffed into a backpack, purse, etc. … Many of us still prefer to hold an actual book in our hands. … But, whether you use a Kindle or prefer hardcover books or paperbacks, the main thing is that you enjoy reading. A story in a book or on a Kindle device can open up new worlds, take you to fantasy worlds, educate you, entertain you, and so much more.”

Read the full essay: Kindle vs. Hardcover: Which is easier on the eyes? at Books in a Flash

iPhone vs. Android: Which is better for you?

Sample lines: “The iPhone vs. Android comparison is a never-ending debate on which one is best. It will likely never have a real winner, but we’re going to try and help you to find your personal pick all the same. iOS 17 and Android 14—the latest versions of the two operating systems—both offer smooth and user-friendly experiences, and several similar or identical features. But there are still important differences to be aware of. … Owning an iPhone is a simpler, more convenient experience. There’s less to think about. … Android-device ownership is a bit harder. … Yet it’s simultaneously more freeing, because it offers more choice.”

Read the full essay: iPhone vs. Android: Which is better for you? at Tom’s Guide

Cutting the cord: Is streaming or cable better for you?

Sample lines: “Cord-cutting has become a popular trend in recent years, thanks to the rise of streaming services. For those unfamiliar, cord cutting is the process of canceling your cable subscription and instead, relying on streaming platforms such as Netflix and Hulu to watch your favorite shows and movies. The primary difference is that you can select your streaming services à la carte while cable locks you in on a set number of channels through bundles. So, the big question is: should you cut the cord?”

Read the full essay: Cutting the cord: Is streaming or cable better for you? at BroadbandNow

PS5 vs. Nintendo Switch

Sample lines: “The crux of the comparison comes down to portability versus power. Being able to migrate fully fledged Nintendo games from a big screen to a portable device is a huge asset—and one that consumers have taken to, especially given the Nintendo Switch’s meteoric sales figures. … It is worth noting that many of the biggest franchises like Call of Duty, Madden, modern Resident Evil titles, newer Final Fantasy games, Grand Theft Auto, and open-world Ubisoft adventures like Assassin’s Creed will usually skip Nintendo Switch due to its lack of power. The inability to play these popular games practically guarantees that a consumer will pick up a modern system, while using the Switch as a secondary device.”

Read the full essay: PS5 vs. Nintendo Switch at Digital Trends

What is the difference between Facebook and Instagram?

Sample lines: “Have you ever wondered what is the difference between Facebook and Instagram? Instagram and Facebook are by far the most popular social media channels used by digital marketers. Not to mention that they’re also the biggest platforms used by internet users worldwide. So, today we’ll look into the differences and similarities between these two platforms to help you figure out which one is the best fit for your business.”

Read the full essay: What is the difference between Facebook and Instagram? at SocialBee

Digital vs. Analog Watches—What’s the Difference?

Sample lines: “In short, digital watches use an LCD or LED screen to display the time. Whereas, an analog watch features three hands to denote the hour, minutes, and seconds. With the advancement in watch technology and research, both analog and digital watches have received significant improvements over the years. Especially in terms of design, endurance, and accompanying features. … At the end of the day, whether you go analog or digital, it’s a personal preference to make based on your style, needs, functions, and budget.”

Read the full essay: Digital vs. Analog Watches—What’s the Difference? at Watch Ranker

AI Art vs. Human Art: A Side-by-Side Analysis

Sample lines: “Art has always been a reflection of human creativity, emotion, and cultural expression. However, with the rise of artificial intelligence (AI), a new form of artistic creation has emerged, blurring the lines between what is created by human hands and what is generated by algorithms. … Despite the excitement surrounding AI Art, it also raises complex ethical, legal, and artistic questions that have sparked debates about the definition of art, the role of the artist, and the future of art production. … Regardless of whether AI Art is considered ‘true’ art, it is crucial to embrace and explore the vast possibilities and potential it brings to the table. The transformative influence of AI art on the art world is still unfolding, and only time will reveal its true extent.”

Read the full essay: AI Art vs. Human Art: A Side-by-Side Analysis at Raul Lara

Pop Culture Compare and Contrast Essay Examples

Christina aguilera vs. britney spears.

Sample lines: “Britney Spears vs. Christina Aguilera was the Coke vs. Pepsi of 1999 — no, really, Christina repped Coke and Britney shilled for Pepsi. The two teen idols released debut albums seven months apart before the turn of the century, with Britney’s becoming a standard-bearer for bubblegum pop and Aguilera’s taking an R&B bent to show off her range. … It’s clear that Spears and Aguilera took extremely divergent paths following their simultaneous breakout successes.”

Read the full essay: Christina Aguilera vs. Britney Spears at The Ringer

Harry Styles vs. Ed Sheeran

Sample lines: “The world heard our fantasies and delivered us two titans simultaneously—we have been blessed with Ed Sheeran and Harry Styles. Our cup runneth over; our bounty is immeasurable. More remarkable still is the fact that both have released albums almost at the same time: Ed’s third, Divide , was released in March and broke the record for one-day Spotify streams, while Harry’s frenziedly anticipated debut solo, called Harry Styles , was released yesterday.”

Read the full essay: Harry Styles versus Ed Sheeran at Belfast Telegraph

The Grinch: Three Versions Compared

Sample lines: “Based on the original story of the same name, this movie takes a completely different direction by choosing to break away from the cartoony form that Seuss had established by filming the movie in a live-action form. Whoville is preparing for Christmas while the Grinch looks down upon their celebrations in disgust. Like the previous film, The Grinch hatches a plan to ruin Christmas for the Who’s. … Like in the original Grinch, he disguises himself as Santa Claus, and makes his dog, Max, into a reindeer. He then takes all of the presents from the children and households. … Cole’s favorite is the 2000 edition, while Alex has only seen the original. Tell us which one is your favorite.”

Read the full essay: The Grinch: Three Versions Compared at Wooster School

Historical and Political Compare and Contrast Essay Examples

Malcolm x vs. martin luther king jr.: comparison between two great leaders’ ideologies .

Sample lines: “Although they were fighting for civil rights at the same time, their ideology and way of fighting were completely distinctive. This can be for a plethora of reasons: background, upbringing, the system of thought, and vision. But keep in mind, they devoted their whole life to the same prospect. … Through boycotts and marches, [King] hoped to end racial segregation. He felt that the abolition of segregation would improve the likelihood of integration. Malcolm X, on the other hand, spearheaded a movement for black empowerment.”

Read the full essay: Malcolm X vs. Martin Luther King Jr.: Comparison Between Two Great Leaders’ Ideologies  at Melaninful

Contrast Between Obama and Trump Has Become Clear

Sample lines: “The contrast is even clearer when we look to the future. Trump promises more tax cuts, more military spending, more deficits and deeper cuts in programs for the vulnerable. He plans to nominate a coal lobbyist to head the Environmental Protection Agency. … Obama says America must move forward, and he praises progressive Democrats for advocating Medicare for all. … With Obama and then Trump, Americans have elected two diametrically opposed leaders leading into two very different directions.”

Read the full essay: Contrast Between Obama and Trump Has Become Clear at Chicago Sun-Times

Sports Compare and Contrast Essay Examples

Lebron james vs. kobe bryant: a complete comparison.

Sample lines: “LeBron James has achieved so much in his career that he is seen by many as the greatest of all time, or at least the only player worthy of being mentioned in the GOAT conversation next to Michael Jordan. Bridging the gap between Jordan and LeBron though was Kobe Bryant, who often gets left out of comparisons and GOAT conversations. … Should his name be mentioned more though? Can he compare to LeBron or is The King too far past The Black Mamba in historical rankings already?”

Read the full essay: LeBron James vs. Kobe Bryant: A Complete Comparison at Sportskeeda

NFL: Tom Brady vs. Peyton Manning Rivalry Comparison

Sample lines: “Tom Brady and Peyton Manning were largely considered the best quarterbacks in the NFL for the majority of the time they spent in the league together, with the icons having many head-to-head clashes in the regular season and on the AFC side of the NFL Playoffs. Manning was the leader of the Indianapolis Colts of the AFC South. … Brady spent his career as the QB of the AFC East’s New England Patriots, before taking his talents to Tampa Bay. … The reality is that winning is the most important aspect of any career, and Brady won more head-to-head matchups than Manning did.”

Read the full essay: NFL: Tom Brady vs. Peyton Manning Rivalry Comparison at Sportskeeda

The Greatest NBA Franchise Ever: Boston Celtics or Los Angeles Lakers?

Sample lines: “The Celtics are universally considered as the greatest franchise in NBA history. But if you take a close look at the numbers, there isn’t really too much separation between them and their arch-rival Los Angeles Lakers. In fact, you can even make a good argument for the Lakers. … In 72 seasons played, the Boston Celtics have won a total of 3,314 games and lost 2,305 or a .590 winning mark. On the other hand, the Los Angeles Lakers have won 3,284 of 5,507 total games played or a slightly better winning record of .596. … But while the Lakers have the better winning percentage, the Celtics have the advantage over them in head-to-head competition.”

Read the full essay: The Greatest NBA Franchise Ever: Boston Celtics or Los Angeles Lakers? at Sport One

Is Soccer Better Than Football?

Sample lines: “Is soccer better than football? Soccer and football lovers have numerous reasons to support their sport of choice. Both keep the players physically fit and help to bring people together for an exciting cause. However, soccer has drawn more numbers globally due to its popularity in more countries.”

Read the full essay: Is Soccer Better Than Football? at Sports Brief

Lifestyle Choices Compare and Contrast Essay Examples

Mobile home vs. tiny house: similarities, differences, pros & cons.

Sample lines: “Choosing the tiny home lifestyle enables you to spend more time with those you love. The small living space ensures quality bonding time rather than hiding away in a room or behind a computer screen. … You’ll be able to connect closer to nature and find yourself able to travel the country at any given moment. On the other hand, we have the mobile home. … They are built on a chassis with transportation in mind. … They are not built to be moved on a constant basis. … While moving the home again *is* possible, it may cost you several thousand dollars.”

Read the full essay: Mobile Home vs. Tiny House: Similarities, Differences, Pros & Cons at US Mobile Home Pros

Whole Foods vs. Walmart: The Story of Two Grocery Stores

Sample lines: “It is clear that both stores have very different stories and aims when it comes to their customers. Whole Foods looks to provide organic, healthy, exotic, and niche products for an audience with a very particular taste. … Walmart, on the other hand, looks to provide the best deals, every possible product, and every big brand for a broader audience. … Moreover, they look to make buying affordable and accessible, and focus on the capitalist nature of buying.”

Read the full essay: Whole Foods vs. Walmart: The Story of Two Grocery Stores at The Archaeology of Us

Artificial Grass vs. Turf: The Real Differences Revealed

Sample lines: “The key difference between artificial grass and turf is their intended use. Artificial turf is largely intended to be used for sports, so it is shorter and tougher. On the other hand, artificial grass is generally longer, softer and more suited to landscaping purposes. Most homeowners would opt for artificial grass as a replacement for a lawn, for example. Some people actually prefer playing sports on artificial grass, too … artificial grass is often softer and more bouncy, giving it a feel similar to playing on a grassy lawn. … At the end of the day, which one you will choose will depend on your specific household and needs.”

Read the full essay: Artificial Grass vs. Turf: The Real Differences Revealed at Almost Grass

Minimalism vs. Maximalism: Differences, Similarities, and Use Cases

Sample lines: “Maximalists love shopping, especially finding unique pieces. They see it as a hobby—even a skill—and a way to express their personality. Minimalists don’t like shopping and see it as a waste of time and money. They’d instead use those resources to create memorable experiences. Maximalists desire one-of-a-kind possessions. Minimalists are happy with duplicates—for example, personal uniforms. … Minimalism and maximalism are about being intentional with your life and belongings. It’s about making choices based on what’s important to you.”

Read the full essay: Minimalism vs. Maximalism: Differences, Similarities, and Use Cases at Minimalist Vegan

Vegetarian vs. Meat Eating: Is It Better To Be a Vegetarian?

Sample lines: “You’ve heard buzz over the years that following a vegetarian diet is better for your health, and you’ve probably read a few magazine articles featuring a celeb or two who swore off meat and animal products and ‘magically’ lost weight. So does ditching meat automatically equal weight loss? Will it really help you live longer and be healthier overall? … Vegetarians appear to have lower low-density lipoprotein cholesterol levels, lower blood pressure  and lower rates of hypertension and type 2 diabetes than meat eaters. Vegetarians also tend to have a lower body mass index, lower overall cancer rates and lower risk of chronic disease. But if your vegetarian co-worker is noshing greasy veggie burgers and fries every day for lunch, is he likely to be healthier than you, who always orders the grilled salmon? Definitely not!”

Read the full essay: Vegetarian vs. Meat Eating: Is It Better To Be a Vegetarian? at WebMD

Healthcare Compare and Contrast Essay Examples

Similarities and differences between the health systems in australia & usa.

Sample lines: “Australia and the United States are two very different countries. They are far away from each other, have contrasting fauna and flora, differ immensely by population, and have vastly different healthcare systems. The United States has a population of 331 million people, compared to Australia’s population of 25.5 million people.”

Read the full essay: Similarities and Differences Between the Health Systems in Australia & USA at Georgia State University

Universal Healthcare in the United States of America: A Healthy Debate

Sample lines: “Disadvantages of universal healthcare include significant upfront costs and logistical challenges. On the other hand, universal healthcare may lead to a healthier populace, and thus, in the long-term, help to mitigate the economic costs of an unhealthy nation. In particular, substantial health disparities exist in the United States, with low socio-economic status segments of the population subject to decreased access to quality healthcare and increased risk of non-communicable chronic conditions such as obesity and type II diabetes, among other determinants of poor health.”

Read the full essay: Universal Healthcare in the United States of America: A Healthy Debate at National Library of Medicine

Pros and Cons of Physician Aid in Dying

Sample lines: “Physician aid in dying is a controversial subject raising issues central to the role of physicians. … The two most common arguments in favor of legalizing AID are respect for patient autonomy and relief of suffering. A third, related, argument is that AID is a safe medical practice, requiring a health care professional. … Although opponents of AID offer many arguments ranging from pragmatic to philosophical, we focus here on concerns that the expansion of AID might cause additional, unintended harm through suicide contagion, slippery slope, and the deaths of patients suffering from depression.”

Read the full essay: Pros and Cons of Physician Aid in Dying at National Library of Medicine

Animals Compare and Contrast Essay Examples

Compare and contrast paragraph—dogs and cats.

Sample lines: “Researchers have found that dogs have about twice the number of neurons in their cerebral cortexes than what cats have. Specifically, dogs had around 530 million neurons, whereas the domestic cat only had 250 million neurons. Moreover, dogs can be trained to learn and respond to our commands, but although your cat understands your name, and anticipates your every move, he/she may choose to ignore you.”

Read the full essay: Compare and Contrast Paragraph—Dogs and Cats at Proofwriting Guru via YouTube

Giddyup! The Differences Between Horses and Dogs

Sample lines: “Horses are prey animals with a deep herding instinct. They are highly sensitive to their environment, hyper aware, and ready to take flight if needed. Just like dogs, some horses are more confident than others, but just like dogs, all need a confident handler to teach them what to do. Some horses are highly reactive and can be spooked by the smallest things, as are dogs. … Another distinction between horses and dogs … was that while dogs have been domesticated , horses have been  tamed. … Both species have influenced our culture more than any other species on the planet.”

Read the full essay: Giddyup! The Differences Between Horses and Dogs at Positively Victoria Stilwell

Exotic, Domesticated, and Wild Pets

Sample lines: “Although the words ‘exotic’ and ‘wild’ are frequently used interchangeably, many people do not fully understand how these categories differ when it comes to pets. ‘A wild animal is an indigenous, non-domesticated animal, meaning that it is native to the country where you are located,’ Blue-McLendon explained. ‘For Texans, white-tailed deer, pronghorn sheep, raccoons, skunks, and bighorn sheep are wild animals … an exotic animal is one that is wild but is from a different continent than where you live.’ For example, a hedgehog in Texas would be considered an exotic animal, but in the hedgehog’s native country, it would be considered wildlife.”

Read the full essay: Exotic, Domesticated, and Wild Pets at Texas A&M University

Should Zoos Be Banned? Pros & Cons of Zoos

Sample lines: “The pros and cons of zoos often come from two very different points of view. From a legal standard, animals are often treated as property. That means they have less rights than humans, so a zoo seems like a positive place to maintain a high quality of life. For others, the forced enclosure of any animal feels like an unethical decision. … Zoos provide a protected environment for endangered animals, and also help in raising awareness and funding for wildlife initiatives and research projects. … Zoos are key for research. Being able to observe and study animals is crucial if we want to contribute to help them and repair the ecosystems. … Zoos are a typical form of family entertainment, but associating leisure and fun with the contemplation of animals in captivity can send the wrong signals to our children.”

Read the full essay: Should Zoos Be Banned? Pros & Cons of Zoos at EcoCation

Do you have a favorite compare and contrast essay example? Come share in the We Are Teachers HELPLINE group on Facebook .

Plus, if you liked these compare and contrast essay examples check out intriguing compare and contrast essay topics for kids and teens ..

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What’s the future of AI?

We’re in the midst of a revolution. Just as steam power, mechanized engines, and coal supply chains transformed the world in the 18th century, AI technology is currently changing the face of work, our economies, and society as we know it. We don’t know exactly what the future will look like. But we do know that these seven technologies will play a big role.

What is AI (artificial intelligence)?

What is generative ai.

What is artificial general intelligence (AGI)?

What is deep learning.

What is prompt engineering?

What is machine learning.

What is tokenization?

What is ChatGPT & 10 Creative Ways To Use It in 2024

As one of the best AI chatbots available, ChatGPT is a fantastic tool that can help you with nearly everything, from crafting engaging video scripts to designing stunning websites. With its ability to generate unique output quickly, it’s an excellent tool for creating exceptional work, regardless of your skill level. In this post, we’ll explore ten creative ways to use it, some of its limitations, and tips on how to get the most out of it.

Let’s dive in.

• 1 What is ChatGPT?
• 2.1 Benefits of ChatGPT
• 2.2 What Are the Limitations of ChatGPT?
• 3 How to Generate Prompts with ChatGPT
• 4.1 1. Blog Topics and Keyword Research
• 4.2 2. Assist in Generating Copy for a Website
• 4.3 3. Proofreading and Editing
• 4.4 4. Creating WordPress Plugins
• 4.5 5. Writing and Debugging Code
• 4.6 6. Generate Video Scripts
• 4.7 7. Generate Surveys and Quizzes
• 4.8 8. Market Research
• 4.9 9. Write Product Descriptions
• 4.10 10. Generating AI Art
• 5 Final Thoughts on Using ChatGPT
• 6 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What is ChatGPT?

ChatGPT is a conversational software that uses three advanced models called generative pre-trained transformers (GPT) to generate text and code based on user input. These models have been trained on vast amounts of text data from various sources like books, social media, websites, and Reddit discussions. During this training process, the models learn language rules, such as how words are used in sentences.

It’s important to note that ChatGPT’s 3.5 version only has information up to 2021. However, if you upgrade to the 4.0 version with a paid plan, you can access a limited amount of information beyond that date.

Although ChatGPT is a series of language models, it generates output differently. Instead of using individual letters, ChatGPT uses tokens and pieces of words to create words. For example, the word dog is one token, but the word alligator is made up of two tokens: all and igator . To create output, ChatGPT calculates the likelihood of one word appearing with other words. However, there are other factors in generating output. The temperature setting is also essential.

Temperature determines how random or focused the output will be. A lower temperature setting, such as .2, will give a more focused and predictable answer. A higher temperature setting, such as 1.0, will provide more creative and random output, giving you a more comprehensive range of possibilities. By default, ChatGPT’s temperature setting is around .7, giving you a balance of focused and creative output.

Now that you understand ChatGPT and how it works, let’s discuss what it can and can’t do.

Understanding the Capabilities of ChatGPT

ChatGPT has been one of the most popular AI chatbots since its launch in 2022. It’s so popular that over 100 million people signed up for it in the first two months. With AI technology evolving at unprecedented rates, it can be challenging to determine what it can and can’t do.

Benefits of ChatGPT

ChatGPT is an incredibly versatile tool with limitless possibilities, making it an excellent choice for various tasks. Whether you need to research topics, extract and paraphrase information, translate text, grade tests, or want to have a conversation, ChatGPT can help.

As AI is still a relatively new technology, there’s still much to learn, and there may be some hiccups. Some say that technology is evolving too quickly and could lead to the loss of jobs. However, it’s undeniable that AI is here to stay. You can achieve more in less time by embracing it and learning how to use it ethically.

That said, some potential drawbacks to using ChatGPT and AI, in general, are worth considering.

What Are the Limitations of ChatGPT?

The first and most important thing is to take what it gives you with a grain of salt. It has been known to provide entirely inaccurate information, so always double-check the facts. Another area for improvement with it is the fact that it can’t access the Internet for up-to-date information. As previously stated, ChatGPT’s results are based on information available as of 2021. Therefore, it can’t give you the latest news or information on the latest technologies, which can cause issues.

Furthermore, it cannot generate images or videos, so you may need to use other AI technologies, such as AI art generators or video generators, to create digital assets. Nevertheless, there are plenty of great tools available to help with that.

Lastly, ChatGPT’s results may not be as human-like as some would like. You’ll need to do a lot of fine-tuning to get the most out of it. However, that’s a good thing, considering using what it gives you word for word is unethical. After all, it’s designed to assist you, not do your job for you.

How to Generate Prompts with ChatGPT

To be successful with ChatGPT (or other AI Chatbots), you’ll need to develop the skill to create effective prompts. It’s more complex than you would think. As previously mentioned, AI models tend to spit out falsehoods occasionally, so starting with a good, descriptive prompt is essential. It’s so important in this evolving technology that new jobs are being created for prompt engineers . If you find yourself looking for a new way to make money with AI, it all starts with the prompt.

Here is a short list of practical ways to generate prompts:

Talk to AI like it’s human: ChatGPT is conversational AI, so to get the best results, talk to it like you’re sitting across the table from someone having a conversation. When entering prompts, try to include casual details, be descriptive, and clarify what you want, down to even the most minute details.

Provide context : Try to include some explanatory text when crafting prompts. Don’t just make statements like create a headline about WordPress . Instead, use something like: I’m looking to introduce new users to WordPress so they’ll know how easy it is to use. Can you craft me some potential headlines that will entice users to read about WordPress? ?

Have ChatGPT assume an identity:

Another tip is to have the AI embody the person or company you’re inquiring about. For example, let’s say you want to write a review about Divi . Rather than saying tell me why Divi is a great theme , say something like from the point of view of its CEO, describe why Divi may be the best choice for WordPress users .

Those are just a few specific examples of ways to enhance AI’s output, but there are additional tips to consider:

• Re-ask the question until you get the answer you desire
• Make changes to your prompts to alter the output
• Specify the length of the answer you’re looking for
• Ask it to cite sources

Regardless of the type of answer, using a well-constructed prompt when using ChatGPT will give you better results than a standard prompt devoid of context, descriptors, or clarification.

10 Creative Ways to Use ChatGPT

There’s a long list of things that ChatGPT can help you with, including creative tasks. If you are a creative professional or new to design, writing, or web development, incorporating ChatGPT – or another good AI chatbot – can make your job much easier. Let’s look at ten ways to boost your creativity and save time on your projects.

1. Blog Topics and Keyword Research

Sometimes adding a new blog post to your website can be challenging. If you need a little help with keyword research and creating effective headlines for your posts, ChatGPT is a great tool to use. Using a good prompt, ChatGPT can generate keyword ideas based on the subject of your choice.

After picking a topic, you can ask ChatGPT to generate some related headlines. As an example, it gave us a list of 15 topics related to WordPress. After choosing WordPress Design Trends , it gave us ten pretty engaging titles that we can use.

Next, we prompted ChatGPT to provide an outline based on responsive design in WordPress. It ironed out a list of main points to craft our outline. While we had to make adjustments here and there, it provided a great start to draft our post.

2. Assist in Generating Copy for a Website

Using ChatGPT as a guide, you can generate copy for your posts, blurbs, FAQs, and more. However, as previously mentioned, you should never use AI to write your entire post. Using it to generate ideas is OK, but you should rewrite any generated copy in your voice. Aside from the ethical implications (a huge part), Google doesn’t care for AI-generated content, which could hurt your ranking in search engines . It’s always best to have it guide you, inspire you, and discover facts that you might not know. That said, be sure to fact-check everything it gives you, as it can generate false information.

Better yet, rather than having it generate copy for you, it’s best to refine copy that you have written yourself.

3. Proofreading and Editing

When writing new content, especially as a beginner, it can be too easy to be wordy, misspell words, or omit a point that may be relevant. Thankfully, ChatGPT is the perfect tool to help revise, condense, or make your original content flow better. After writing a few paragraphs for your posts or other web content, input it into ChatGPT and prompt it to improve your content. One tip to follow is telling it to keep the original tone of voice . This lets the tool know that you intend to control what is written yet improve it based on the parameters you provide.

As an example, we took the paragraph we’ve written above and asked it to make it more concise while keeping the original writing tone. Because ChatGPT is a conversational tool, it will try to utilize earlier prompts in the thread for relevancy. Based on this process, you can use ChatGPT to trim excess fluff, spot misspellings, make things more concise, or provide ideas on making your copy more relevant.

4. Creating WordPress Plugins

Another great way to use ChatGPT is to create plugins that you can use on your WordPress website. For the plugin to be functional and avoid further prompts, you must be more creative with your initial prompt.

For instance, we provided this information:

Create a WordPress plugin called “Dee Maintenance” that does the below actions once activated.

• After a user logs in, redirect them to the home page after logging in.
• If a user lands on the site but is logged out, show them a maintenance mode message that says this website is under maintenance. Give us a little time as we’re making things look awesome for you.
• Style the maintenance message with a grey background with a 5px border radius.
• Give the text a font size of 2em and make it red.

It provided a functional PHP file and told us how to implement it on our website. While you could use ChatGPT to code complex plugins, it can also be essential in creating plugins like these to help you keep your website bloat down.

5. Writing and Debugging Code

If you’re a web developer, chances are you’ve encountered errors with your website’s code or discovered console errors on your website. Thanks to ChatGPT, you can get the assistance you need with a well-crafted prompt. For example, we asked ChatGPT to identify a common console error to get help understanding the problem and how to fix it. It successfully identified the problem and provided us with the steps to correct it.

So, what happens if you have a more complex problem to solve? No worries because ChatGPT can assist with that too. In addition to debugging code issues, it will also write code for you. It understands various programming languages such as CSS, HTML, Javascript, PHP, etc.

If you’re a beginner, ChatGPT is an excellent tool for explaining what a code’s function is. For example, we grabbed a script from a Divi website and asked it to explain it. It described the code’s purpose with detailed information to make it easier to understand (as if we were a beginner). As a result, ChatGPT turned into an instructor, making it an excellent tool for people wanting to learn more about coding.

6. Generate Video Scripts

If you want to create promotional videos for marketing campaigns, ChatGPT is a great asset. Generating video scripts is the same process as blog posts but with a few differences. Of course, you’ll need to start with a keyword or title, then provide as many details as possible to get the best results. Anyone who creates videos can tell you the process can sometimes take hours or even days to develop a script. ChatGPT can do it in minutes. You can even use detailed prompts for effects and transitions that you can copy and paste into a good AI video generator to enhance it.

It can even be used to create YouTube videos, TikTok videos , and much more. For instance, we asked it to make a 30-second clip about five unknown dog facts. It generated a full script with ideas on which assets to use—pretty amazing stuff.

7. Generate Surveys and Quizzes

Quizzes and surveys are great tools for gaining valuable insights from your customers. Marketers can take these answers and use them to develop good marketing strategies . They are short, simple, and engaging, making good conversation pieces for users to share on social media. ChatGPT excels at this, so making them is a lot easier. You can create topics, titles, descriptions, and, yes, questions to include in your surveys and quizzes in a few short minutes.

For example, we asked ChatGPT to create a survey for an online jewelry store with lagging sales. We entered a concise prompt and got some pretty good questions about their shopping experience. You can take what ChatGPT gives you to gain other ideas for questions or reformat them to meet the needs of your specific business.

If you’re a WordPress user, you can use a good quiz plugin or survey plugin to add a quiz to your site quickly. That said, the possibilities are endless. You can ask ChatGPT to create HTML to incorporate your quiz into a static website, prompt it to make a text-to-image description to use with an AI art generator, and more.

8. Market Research

When conducting market research with ChatGPT, being specific is the best way to start. Tell it about the product or service you’d like insight on, provide specific demographics to look at, and even ask it to embody your target audience .

For instance, we asked ChatGPT to help identify people in Birmingham, Alabama, that would likely be interested in purchasing web design services. With a well-crafted prompt, it provided us with the age groups, income and education levels, and the specific locations of that area that would be our best demographic to target. While this is a basic example, it gives you a good concept of what ChatGPT can do.

Additionally, you can prompt ChatGPT to give a perspective or speak as a particular entity. It will help if you continue feeding it after the initial prompt to ensure you get the best results. Finally, as we’ve stated many times in our article, please don’t take what it says as absolute. Following up with your research is essential to ensure you have the correct facts.

9. Write Product Descriptions

If you have an ecommerce website , one of the most tedious tasks is writing good product descriptions. This is especially true if you have hundreds of products to create. Thankfully, ChatGPT and other AI writing software  can help with that. As with any other task you ask of ChatGPT, you get what you give. So, to get the best results, be descriptive yet precise in telling it what you want.

We asked it to create a product description for an insulated 20-ounce cup we want to sell. After the initial prompt, it spits out five paragraphs, which is too much for a product description. So, in a follow-up prompt, we instructed it to provide two concise yet easy-to-read sections that make our product sound fun .

10. Generating AI Art

Our final creative way of using ChatGPT combines it with other AI programs to create beautiful artwork. Since ChatGPT is a language model, it can’t currently create images for you. However, there is a plethora of AI software that can help. When you are ready to create your art, you can combine it with a program such as MidJourney to design webpages , image assets, and so much more.

Alternatively, you can use ChatGPT to generate prompts for AI image generators. However, this method requires quite a bit of tweaking to get things like you want them, and most text-to-image AI software can do that for you.

Final Thoughts on Using ChatGPT

ChatGPT is a powerful tool with many practical uses, from blog topics and proofreading to coding websites and WordPress plugins. While it does have some mighty AI chops under the hood, it’s important to remember that it does have some limitations. We highly suggest you use it as a guide rather than having it do all of your work for you. After all, it’s meant to be an assistive tool, not a job replacement.

With its innovative technology, ChatGPT has the potential to revolutionize how we approach content creation, marketing, and technology. The sky’s the limit with AI, and it is exciting to see what kind of advancements it will bring.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Before we wrap up, let’s answer some of your most common questions about ChatGPT. Did we miss one? Leave a question below, and we will respond!

Is ChatGPT free?

Is chatgpt plus worth it, how does chatgpt work, can chatgpt write essays, does chatgpt save your data, what is the best chatgpt alternative, how does the chatgpt ai detector work, can chatgpt write code, who owns chatgpt.

How do you use ChatGPT, and are there other AI tools you swear by? Let us know in the comments below.

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An advantage of the Utopia P2P ChatGPT assistant is its ability to provide real-time information. It can fetch live data, such as weather updates, stock prices, and news articles, ensuring that users have access to the most current and relevant information.

Great ideas. At first it freaked me out – now it’s not going anywhere and a great tool to leverage. I use it to A/B test headlines for blogs as well as help come up with metadata content that uses key phrases I need. It saves me tons of time on little things that I would have spent at least 40 minutes on. It’s a great assistant, let’s just say that. 🙂

AI is not intelligent. It is an algorithm of wholesale robotic plagiarism that is looting the content of the web without credit or compensation to the original sources.

Here you are endorsing it’s use in a way that undermines & defrauds the livelihoods of professional writers.

It’s not just disrespectful, it’s actually destructive, and I’m not impressed.

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Introducing Microsoft 365 Copilot – your copilot for work

Mar 16, 2023 | Jared Spataro - CVP, AI at Work

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Humans are hard-wired to dream, to create, to innovate. Each of us seeks to do work that gives us purpose — to write a great novel, to make a discovery, to build strong communities, to care for the sick. The urge to connect to the core of our work lives in all of us. But today, we spend too much time consumed by the drudgery of work on tasks that zap our time, creativity and energy. To reconnect to the soul of our work, we don’t just need a better way of doing the same things. We need a whole new way to work.

Today, we are bringing the power of next-generation AI to work. Introducing Microsoft 365 Copilot — your copilot for work . It combines the power of large language models (LLMs) with your data in the Microsoft Graph and the Microsoft 365 apps to turn your words into the most powerful productivity tool on the planet.

“Today marks the next major step in the evolution of how we interact with computing, which will fundamentally change the way we work and unlock a new wave of productivity growth,” said Satya Nadella, Chairman and CEO, Microsoft. “With our new copilot for work, we’re giving people more agency and making technology more accessible through the most universal interface — natural language.”

Copilot is integrated into Microsoft 365 in two ways. It works alongside you, embedded in the Microsoft 365 apps you use every day — Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook, Teams and more — to unleash creativity, unlock productivity and uplevel skills. Today we’re also announcing an entirely new experience: Business Chat . Business Chat works across the LLM, the Microsoft 365 apps, and your data — your calendar, emails, chats, documents, meetings and contacts — to do things you’ve never been able to do before. You can give it natural language prompts like “Tell my team how we updated the product strategy,” and it will generate a status update based on the morning’s meetings, emails and chat threads.

With Copilot, you’re always in control. You decide what to keep, modify or discard. Now, you can be more creative in Word, more analytical in Excel, more expressive in PowerPoint, more productive in Outlook and more collaborative in Teams.

Microsoft 365 Copilot transforms work in three ways:

Unleash creativity. With Copilot in Word, you can jump-start the creative process so you never start with a blank slate again. Copilot gives you a first draft to edit and iterate on — saving hours in writing, sourcing, and editing time. Sometimes Copilot will be right, other times usefully wrong — but it will always put you further ahead. You’re always in control as the author, driving your unique ideas forward, prompting Copilot to shorten, rewrite or give feedback. Copilot in PowerPoint helps you create beautiful presentations with a simple prompt, adding relevant content from a document you made last week or last year. And with Copilot in Excel, you can analyze trends and create professional-looking data visualizations in seconds.

Unlock productivity. We all want to focus on the 20% of our work that really matters, but 80% of our time is consumed with busywork that bogs us down. Copilot lightens the load. From summarizing long email threads to quickly drafting suggested replies, Copilot in Outlook helps you clear your inbox in minutes, not hours. And every meeting is a productive meeting with Copilot in Teams. It can summarize key discussion points — including who said what and where people are aligned and where they disagree — and suggest action items, all in real time during a meeting. And with Copilot in Power Platform, anyone can automate repetitive tasks, create chatbots and go from idea to working app in minutes.

GitHub data shows that Copilot promises to unlock productivity for everyone. Among developers who use GitHub Copilot, 88% say they are more productive, 74% say that they can focus on more satisfying work, and 77% say it helps them spend less time searching for information or examples.

But Copilot doesn’t just supercharge individual productivity. It creates a new knowledge model for every organization — harnessing the massive reservoir of data and insights that lies largely inaccessible and untapped today. Business Chat works across all your business data and apps to surface the information and insights you need from a sea of data — so knowledge flows freely across the organization, saving you valuable time searching for answers. You will be able to access Business Chat from Microsoft 365.com, from Bing when you’re signed in with your work account, or from Teams.

Uplevel skills. Copilot makes you better at what you’re good at and lets you quickly master what you’ve yet to learn. The average person uses only a handful of commands — such as “animate a slide” or “insert a table” — from the thousands available across Microsoft 365. Now, all that rich functionality is unlocked using just natural language. And this is only the beginning.

Copilot will fundamentally change how people work with AI and how AI works with people. As with any new pattern of work, there’s a learning curve — but those who embrace this new way of working will quickly gain an edge.

The Copilot System: Enterprise-ready AI

Microsoft is uniquely positioned to deliver enterprise-ready AI with the Copilot System . Copilot is more than OpenAI’s ChatGPT embedded into Microsoft 365. It’s a sophisticated processing and orchestration engine working behind the scenes to combine the power of LLMs, including GPT-4, with the Microsoft 365 apps and your business data in the Microsoft Graph — now accessible to everyone through natural language.

Grounded in your business data. AI-powered LLMs are trained on a large but limited corpus of data. The key to unlocking productivity in business lies in connecting LLMs to your business data — in a secure, compliant, privacy-preserving way. Microsoft 365 Copilot has real-time access to both your content and context in the Microsoft Graph. This means it generates answers anchored in your business content — your documents, emails, calendar, chats, meetings, contacts and other business data — and combines them with your working context — the meeting you’re in now, the email exchanges you’ve had on a topic, the chat conversations you had last week — to deliver accurate, relevant, contextual responses.

Built on Microsoft’s comprehensive approach to security, compliance and privacy. Copilot is integrated into Microsoft 365 and automatically inherits all your company’s valuable security, compliance, and privacy policies and processes. Two-factor authentication, compliance boundaries, privacy protections, and more make Copilot the AI solution you can trust.

Architected to protect tenant, group and individual data. We know data leakage is a concern for customers. Copilot LLMs are not trained on your tenant data or your prompts. Within your tenant, our time-tested permissioning model ensures that data won’t leak across user groups. And on an individual level, Copilot presents only data you can access using the same technology that we’ve been using for years to secure customer data.

Integrated into the apps millions use every day. Microsoft 365 Copilot is integrated in the productivity apps millions of people use and rely on every day for work and life — Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook, Teams and more. An intuitive and consistent user experience ensures it looks, feels and behaves the same way in Teams as it does in Outlook, with a shared design language for prompts, refinements and commands.

Designed to learn new skills.  Microsoft 365 Copilot’s foundational skills are a game changer for productivity: It can already create, summarize, analyze, collaborate and automate using your specific business content and context. But it doesn’t stop there. Copilot knows how to command apps (e.g., “animate this slide”) and work across apps, translating a Word document into a PowerPoint presentation. And Copilot is designed to learn new skills. For example, with Viva Sales, Copilot can learn how to connect to CRM systems of record to pull customer data — like interaction and order histories — into communications. As Copilot learns about new domains and processes, it will be able to perform even more sophisticated tasks and queries.

Committed to building responsibly

At Microsoft, we are guided by our AI principles and Responsible AI Standard and decades of research on AI, grounding and privacy-preserving machine learning. A multidisciplinary team of researchers, engineers and policy experts reviews our AI systems for potential harms and mitigations — refining training data, filtering to limit harmful content, query- and result-blocking sensitive topics, and applying Microsoft technologies like InterpretML and Fairlearn to help detect and correct data bias. We make it clear how the system makes decisions by noting limitations, linking to sources, and prompting users to review, fact-check and adjust content based on subject-matter expertise.

Moving boldly as we learn  

In the months ahead, we’re bringing Copilot to all our productivity apps—Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook, Teams, Viva, Power Platform, and more. We’ll share more on pricing and licensing soon. Earlier this month we announced Dynamics 365 Copilot as the world’s first AI Copilot in both CRM and ERP to bring the next-generation AI to every line of business.

Everyone deserves to find purpose and meaning in their work — and Microsoft 365 Copilot can help. To serve the unmet needs of our customers, we must move quickly and responsibly, learning as we go. We’re testing Copilot with a small group of customers to get feedback and improve our models as we scale, and we will expand to more soon.

Learn more on the Microsoft 365 blog and visit WorkLab to get expert insights on how AI will create a brighter future of work for everyone.

And for all the blogs, videos and assets related to today’s announcements, please visit our microsite .

Tags: AI , Microsoft 365 , Microsoft 365 Copilot

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