Computers and Canadian Culture

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Computers and Canadian Culture

Project type: Introductory Activity

Related topic:
Computer Invasion: A History of Automation in Canada

Subjects

History
Social Studies
Science

Summary

In this introductory activity, students will explore how computers have changed our lives and culture.

Duration

1 to 2 lessons

Purpose

To understand how computers have changed the way society functions

Before Exploring

Present the students with a reasonably difficult (depending on grade level) math or algebra problem. Ask them to do the calculation on paper, then allow them to use a calculator. You can also demonstrate a slide rule to calculate the answer.

Ask: What other aspects of modern life would be more difficult without computers? Include jobs, processes, and technology. List the students’ responses on the board or chart paper.

Outline the Opportunity

Direct students to the topic Computer Invasion: A History of Automation in Canada on the CBC Radio and Television Archives Web site. Have them view Clips #1 and #2 first, then view Clips #6, 7, 8, and 9, including the Did You Know? sections. Students will list, in chart form, the jobs and processes that the computer has changed. Have them include the year the changes occurred, where possible.

Revisit and Reflect

In groups of three or four, students will compare and combine their findings. Have one representative from each group present the group’s list and create a master list on the board. Ask the class: Compared with our earlier list, do computers have more or less of an effect on your life than you thought? How?

Extension

Students can prepare a short essay that completes the sentence: Computers have revolutionized our lives by….