Day 6: The Internet of Things (IoT)

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libelium_smart_world_infographic_big
Picture taken from: https://www.forbes.com/sites/jacobmorgan/2014/05/13/simple-explanation-internet-things-that-anyone-can-understand/#1ed15f551d09
This is the change we need!

 Today, we were tasked to find out what the Internet of Things (IoT) is. I am totally oblivious as to what it is. Ever as ravenous for knowledge, I rummage through the World Wide Web loot box and here is what I discovered. Trust me. The IoT is definitely an interesting concept,

 a. In your own words, define Internet of Things.
The Internet of Things (IoT) is basically a conceptualized system of interconnected things. When I say things, I mean EVERYTHING. From house lighting to municipal-level waste management, the IoT aims to connect devices that can turn on and turn off into a global, holistic web. Some sources even claim that the IoT links humans and animals too. I do not entirely disagree.

 b. What brought this theory about?
Despite other theorists and experts pitching in their take on the system, the IoT is primarily the brainchild of Kevin Ashton, cofounder and executive director of the Auto-ID Center at MIT. Ashton saw a problem with the current way of things then (late 90s to early 2000s) - computers were simply too dependent on human input. And humans are busy creatures. Convinced that our natures limited us from maximizing the full potential of an error-free Internet system, Ashton proposed the IoT. Through the IoT, we would be able to "track and count everything and greatly reduce waste, loss and cost".

 c. Do you like the concept of IoT? Why or why not?
I think the concept of IoT is an amazing application of what we can achieve in today's society. Perhaps there are certain disadvantages to it (think about the cost!). However, I believe that the advantages greatly outweigh the disadvantages. If we are willing to sacrifice today for a more cohesive, holistic system in the future, then I am all go for it.

 d. In what situations do you encounter IoT in the Philippines?
Let me not stray far from the situation I am in right now. Back then, homeworks were obligately pen-and-paper. With the advancement of technology, we are now able to pass homeworks through a digital device. We can now connect to our teachers, to our institutions with a single click of the mouse, a simple type on the keyboard.

 e. How do you think IoT will evolve and affect Filipino society in the next 3 to 5 years?
I think IoT will be more heavily integrated into our society, particularly in the fields of livelihood and transportation. We saw the conception of the Beep Card just two years ago. What advancements in public transportation system are exciting (and much needed!). On the other hand, we're seeing a surge in the demand for IT-skilled workers. I don't think it's going the other way around any time soon.

 f. What do you think is the relationship/cause and effect of IoT in media and information literacy?
Everything is so interconnected these days, it's like everything and everyone is glued to a sticky spider's web. One single vibration can send quivers throughout, and the transmitted vibration is felt everywhere. The dawn of the virtual age is also the dawn of loudness. Every piece of information becomes so relevant that we are now defined by what we are exposed to. IoT has definitely amplified the relevance of information (false or veritable). Whether the effects are good or bad is hard to tell. Let's all hope it turns out to be the former most, if not all, of the time.

For more readings, I suggest you visit the following sites:
  • http://internetofthingsagenda.techtarget.com/definition/Internet-of-Things-IoT
  • https://www.forbes.com/sites/jacobmorgan/2014/05/13/simple-explanation-internet-things-that-anyone-can-understand/#1ed15f551d09

(Note: This post is a log for November 21, 2017. However, it was published only today.)

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