This project involved learning about the use of technology by many countries across the world and understanding the barriers to technology usage that are often created by the digital divide. By selecting a country outside of the U.S., the research allowed me to apply the digital literacy skills discussed in this course in a practical scenario. in addition to the research, I also learned how to write a professional Word Document that follows proper format, as well as how to create a PowerPoint presentation, using principles we learned in class, that accurately presents the important information from the report.
Since I worked independently, I focused on one country: Iceland. Iceland was selected because of its strong digital infrastructure, high internet access rates, and unique geographic challenges that affect connectivity.
Something cool that I found out was that Iceland is known for having one of the highest internet usage in the world (98-99%), and yet it still suffers from a digital divide as many people living in its more isolated communities have trouble accessing the internet as their areas are so remote and it is often too cold or snowy to have it.
I learned how to research global digital technology using academic sources and how to check if those sources are reliable. I also gained a better understanding of how geography, infrastructure, and population affect technology access in different countries. Creating the Word document helped me practice using headings and APA citations, and the PowerPoint improved my visual communication skills. Working on this project alone taught me how to stay organized and manage my time. Overall, this project strengthened my digital literacy and my ability to communicate information clearly.
This project explores an emerging technology expected to grow significantly within the next 5–10 years. The goal is to research the technology, analyze its impact on society, and present findings through a clear, well‑designed digital presentation. The assignment also helps build digital communication skills by requiring a structured PowerPoint with academic sources, visuals, and detailed speaker notes.
My chosen emerging technology is advanced prosthetics. I selected this topic because prosthetic technology is rapidly evolving and has a direct impact on people’s lives, especially individuals who have experienced limb loss. The combination of robotics, artificial intelligence, and biomedical engineering makes this field both innovative and meaningful. I wanted to learn how these technologies restore mobility and independence while shaping the future of healthcare.
One of the most interesting things I learned is that modern prosthetics can now connect directly to nerves, allowing users to feel pressure or texture through artificial limbs. This level of sensory feedback was once considered impossible, but new research in neural interfaces is bringing prosthetics closer to natural human function.
In the course of this project, I was exposed to how technology evolves throughout time, as well as how research, engineering, and medical innovation can come together to tackle the world's issues. I also gained skills in assessing scholarly literature, organizing the information collected, and communicating that information in a digital format.
In addition to that, I gained an appreciation for the significance of the availability and cost of new inventions. All in all, this project gave me a greater understanding of the way that technology could enhance the quality of life for those who need it and how good design may make it more accessible to everyone who is in need.