Jayme Jaramillo

Silicon Snake

1. Stoll states that he found himself wasting time in grad school searching the Internet; even before there were many site. He believes students just waste valuable education time. The Internet can be a time waster, but so can any activity. Students who are asked to read a book may just spend time day dreaming or secretly writing notes. If a student wants to get off task, they’ll find a way regardless of the assignment.

2. What was a once a small town is now a NYC highway – this is how Stoll describes the Internet. This is a true statement. At one time, users could be certain that the only other people as actively using the Internet were as computer savvy as themselves, but that is not the case. All types of individuals have Internet access; therefore, cautions must be taken before determining validity.

3. Rory McGreal disagrees with Stoll staring, “Dangerously, he claims that he does not want a computer adept doctor. He would prefer someone with compassion. Hey, Clifford, how about a compassionate computer-adept doctor?” I agree with McGreal. Computers should not replace the real thing and cannot replace compassion, feelings, etc.; however, being knowledgeable in your field and the Internet is beneficial. The Internet contains a lot of valuable information – use it along with every thing else available.

4. Wanda Johnston rebukes Stoll’s ideas about online shopping. Another reason given in Stoll’s book for not using online shopping is the inability to comparison shop. There are now reputable sites such as www.lendingtree.com and www.priceline.com where you enter the price and the comparison shopping is done for you. On the contrary, it is easier to comparison shop online, because you do not need to go from store to store – you simply surf the web in a matter of minutes.

5. Stoll says someone may describe themselves one way (pretty) but be another way (ugly). Darren Stevens agrees with that point, but states that, “loneliness that often comes when a physical disability hinders their ability to travel. The Internet is the only way for these individuals to correspond with family and friends.” Some people find it hard to communicate with others in person, but need support that they find online. Some people need a “disguise”, which a computer provides. Stoll is right, you must be cautious, because you may be meeting someone dangerous, but you can communicate cautiously with others.