Friday, February 18, 2011

Confession Apps on Smartphones.

In this generation,technology is taking over everything we do. Even the things that are meant to be done face to face or manually. In this recent high tech world,the Catholic Church is keeping up with the trend to reach out to every busy people.The Catholic Church has joined the 21st Century – it’s just approved a Confession app for the iPhone. the name of the apps been introduced is called iConfess, the first and original confession application for iPhone and iPad.


iConfess includes About Penance( this can mean remorse for your past conduct or repentance), which enables users to learn more about the Sacrament of Penance. Then there's the Examination of Conscience, that helps users to thoroughly reflect and examine their lives, to guide them for their confession. And lastly, there's the Prayer for Confession, which includes the Act of Contrition and other prayers.

The purpose of this application is to tap the interest of many busy Catholics who forget to keep in touch with their spiritual side.
there has been lots of critic and argument to this new app which I find difficult to support. The nature of sacrament is meant to be a person to person dialogue between the penitent and the priest.the question by several people is that ----"How can you be absolved (of your sins) if there is no priest?"
Am still trying to get the apps on my phone so as to know how it works. but I just keep on thinking and pondering how technology is taking charge over everything.

What do u think about such kind of apps?

Tuesday, February 15, 2011

Techology Integration

Incorporation of technology resources and technology-based practices into the daily routines, work, and management of schools is what I do understand technology integration to be.

The resources above can be understood to be computers and specialized software, network-based communication systems and other equipment. Practices include collaborative work and communication, Internet-based research, retrieval of data, and other methods. In all this may refer to the opportunities for individuals (students) to self-select technology tools that will allow them to think critically, communicate effectively, produce facts and take control of much of their own learning processes.
Furthermore, I refer technology integration to be the combination of rich content and effective method of instruction that creates learning opportunities difficult or impossible to replicate without the use of technology.

Obstacles.
Looking at the obstacles of technology integration with more focus on our classrooms.
The number one obstacle observed can be the individuals/lecturer’s attitudes and beliefs. Lectures attitudes and beliefs are powerful forces which significantly influence actions in our various lectures.
To implement technology integration successfully, lecturers must develop a positive attitude towards computers and feel comfortable using them as instructional tools. Lectures often feel nervous about technology because use of computers requires them to challenge their current role in the lecture halls. They may also find themselves in the role of student as many of the students find themselves teaching the lectures how to use aspects of technology which is an uncomfortable role for many lectures.

RECOMMENDATIONS.

My recommendation on how to improve techonology integration is that ..........
•Before creating a technology integration plan, institutions should establish a clear and concise definition for technology integration. This will assist in providing direction and bestowing common language.
•Schools should enhance technology literacy. It should be a goal of every school to ensure that every lecture venue contains a highly effective teacher. Effective teachers in a modern digital era that possess the skills necessary to use and keep current with modern technology tools

•Institutions should leverage instructional technology coaches. Many schools already employ technology integration specialists who already contain the essential blend of knowledge and technical skills. As technology coaches, these teachers should become the core foundation for technology integration efforts at the school level. Many lectures have not embraced blogs, wikis, social networks, iPads or digital cameras as teaching tools because they don’t understand their application or usefulness.
•There should be a continuation to fund technology initiatives. Technology is always shifting and changing. Consequently, universities need to ensure that there is consistent access to new technologies that they perceive as useful to their teaching. As more lectures begin to successfully integrate technology at a high level. It is very possible that the desire to have current technology tools at their disposal will increase.

Thursday, February 10, 2011

CELL PHONE WALLET.

Hi guys, I found something interesting and I feel I should tell everyone about it. China as we know is developing rapidly in terms of technology. They have come up with something new again. Now your cell phone can be used as your debit card. This is a step to transform the way we shop. But is it that easy... let’s see....

Users only need to bring the phone to their service provider which will serve as the cell phone wallet, a valid ID, and about 22 dollars for a dedicated radio RFID card to replace their regular SIM. An RFID is also something new now and we carry these things or use them but we don’t know. The RFID refers to small electronic devices that consist of a small chip and an antenna. There is no extra service fee required.

The new SIM can be charged with cash at the site or by online banking. The whole process takes about 20-30 minute. After this, it begins to work like your debit card. Even now, People in Beijing can take the bus or subway by simply swiping their mobile phones.

Security Concerns.


Though, the new emerging technology sounds like a time saver and there is no waiting for charges or password typing but is it safe by not having all that?.The cell phone owner can check his cell wallet balance in the phone to see if the balance matches with what he buys. SMS will not be sent to confirm a transaction. When users recharge their balance, a password is required to transfer money to "My payment account" in the phone menu but no password is required either to further transfer to the virtual wallet or spend the money.

Though, it is interesting that people can swipe phones to make payments, so that they don’t have to go about with cards and stuff like that. If the phone is lost or stolen, are there safeguards to prevent a thief from going on a spending spree?

What do u guys think about this?. Do you want this technology in South Africa or not? .why?

watch out for my next blog on RFID..ALSO INTERESTING.

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