An insight into Communication Technology and its major misuse: Cyberbullying

The world has progressed over time in terms of the use of technology. Incorporating technology into many modes of communication has facilitated the dissemination of knowledge like never before. It is not uncommon for a modern communicator to be proficient in all the devices, programs, and tools related to communication technology.

 

The term "communication technology" is used to describe all the devices that are used to transmit, receive, and process data. Successful communication technology in today's fast-paced environment must prioritize efficiency and convenience. Each new advancement in communication technology has altered the flow of information and enhanced the user experience.

 

What we now call "communications technology" was originally called "information technology," and it encompassed any devices and software used to store, retrieve, transmit, and otherwise manage data. Experts in the field of communication technology design, implement, and maintain these kinds of technological infrastructures. Those who work in this industry learn how communication technologies are conceived of, created, evaluated, and disseminated.

 

The ability to use, maintain, and improve communications technology is essential for professionals in this field. Professionals in the field of computer technology need to be well-versed in mechanical processes, computer applications, wireless technologies, and problem-solving.

 

 

Human interaction has been revolutionized by technological advancements. Simple technologies have developed into channels of communication that link people all over the world. Following are some major modes of communication. 

 

Telephone 

The telephone was a game-changer for the spoken word. As a result, relationships can be bolstered and the stresses of long-distance contact eliminated, no matter where in the world the two parties may be. It's as easy as talking to someone down the street, even if they're on the other side of the country.

 

Due to technological advancements, "telephone" was renamed "mobile phone." Now you can pack a device that used to weigh a ton into your pocket. In addition to their portability, today's phones also boast sophisticated functions and features.

 

The evolution of the telephone resulted in the incorporation of several modes of nonverbal communication. Mobile phones may now carry more information than ever before thanks to the prevalence of text messaging and electronic versions of photographs.

 

Radio 

When the radio was introduced, it was around twenty years after the telephone. Radio is another technological advancement that has greatly expanded the potential audience for spoken word communications beyond the one person at the other end of a phone line.

 

Many communicators are still inspired by radio's low cost-to-audience ratio and its widespread reach. Those in the information business, including newscasters and advertisers, invest considerable time in exploiting radio to reach their vast audiences.

 

The advent of radio technology revolutionized the dissemination of news to wide audiences and has strengthened news dissemination ever since.

 

Television 

We may learn about nearly anything today thanks to the multitude of television channels covering history, sports, news, science, fantasy, and more. Many people rely on television as their primary source of news and information.

 

Some ideas are difficult to describe in words. Those who watch TV can learn useful information while also having fun. As a result of this perk, TV has become more popular than radio among the general public.

 

Internet 

The internet has eliminated the need for individuals to carry around multiple devices in order to communicate. The Internet makes it possible to accomplish everything in one convenient location.

 

The Internet is the undisputed king of interaction because it centralizes and coordinates all other forms of electronic communication. It offers more ways to learn and get in touch than anything else in human history.

 

Internet-based tools simplify all forms of interaction. Video conferencing software enables both verbal and nonverbal communication. Email is a convenient way to communicate in writing. Digital images can be shared between any two devices as long as they have access to the internet.

 

Software for communicating with customers is another type of tool. While other devices facilitate two-way contact between a company and its customers, certain tools often combine features of both.

 

Live chat is an unusual hybrid technology that combines audio and video conferencing software, instant messaging, and file sharing to facilitate all modes of communication (verbal, nonverbal, textual, and rich material).

 

All of a customer's interactions (ordering, inquiries, and problems) may take place in one spot thanks to live chat. Because of this, they can reach out to a company whenever they like with questions. Connecting with others has never been simpler than using live chat software.

 

WhatsApp is a fantastic illustration of a real-time messaging platform. You may make voice and video conversations, as well as send and receive instant messages, pictures, and videos, with this versatile software. You may also quickly respond and communicate with consumers by automating messages with the WhatsApp Business version.

 

Education 

A Bachelor of Science in Information and Communications Technology (ICT) curriculum covers a wide range of topics relevant to the field of communication technology. Any course in communication technology would be remiss without a substantial hands-on component, as this is the best way to prepare students for the future of the field. Web development, IT management, technical writing, and project management are just some of the topics covered.

 

Skills and abilities

Students planning to work in the field of communication technology as professionals should take courses in engineering and computer science. Communication skills help experts interpret and clarify issues with this technology. In addition to a solid understanding of computer code, candidates should demonstrate proficiency in business acumen, critical thinking, and related areas. In addition, people need the ability to diagnose and fix problems with communications technology.

 

Career opportunities 

Jobs in the field of information and communication technology are in high demand across all economic sectors. Experts in the field must be able to set up networks that meet the specific requirements of each business. There are openings in the fields of telecommunications management, technical support, retail/customer service, and small business.

 

Industry outlook 

Jobs in the communication technology sector can range widely in terms of salary and job security. According to BLS data from 2018, we learn that computer programmers, for instance, made a median salary of $84,280. Unfortunately, projections suggest a 7% reduction in employment in the field between 2016 and 2026. However, the job market may be more favorable for people who have a bachelor's degree and fluency in many programming languages.

 

The BLS reports that the median wage for computer and information research scientists was $118,370 in 2015 and that the field is expected to rise by 19% between 2016 and 2026. The Bureau of Labor Statistics projects an 11% rise in demand for database administrators from 2016 to 2026. As of 2018, the median income for someone in this position was $90,070.

 

CCNT Certification

Professionals in the field of communication technology might choose to get their CCNT (Certified in Convergent Network Technologies) certification in order to improve their employment prospects. Certification Partners has validated their expert knowledge of data, audio, and video technologies through this.

 

Certification Partners and the Telecommunications Industry Association (TIA) have developed a program called CCNT to help people get the training they need to become certified telecommunications professionals. An examination covering fundamentals such as telecommunications, broadband technologies, VoIP fundamentals, and data communications is the final step. Certified professionals can advance their careers in areas such as network administration, product management, technical sales, and support engineering.

 

The excessive use of the internet and various modes of communication by the young generation of today has increased the frequency of cyberbullying. As much as the rise of technology and advancements are very efficient. They also pose a great threat to this generation from a psychosocial perspective.

 

Understanding cyberbullying 

Harmful online interactions such as harassment, doxing, reputation attacks, and revenge porn are all included under the broad concept of "cyberbullying."

 

Cyberbullying occurs when one person engages in or instigates online hate campaigns directed at another person using technology such as computers, consoles, cell phones, and/or any other device having access to the internet or social media. Cyberbullying is a serious issue in the online gaming world, despite the belief that it is a social media phenomenon.

 

Cyberbullying victims often have no idea who is operating the abusive accounts. Sometimes the victim has a suspicion about who the bullies are but can't prove it because trolling and bullying accounts often take advantage of everyone's important right to anonymity; other times, random people find out about the cyberbullying and act out of a "mob mentality," adding to the bullying rather than stopping it.

 

Different types of Cyberbullying 

 

It's easy for anyone to become a target of cyberbullying in this modern era of widespread internet access. Common forms of cyberbullying include:

 

Online harassment occurs when one person or a group of people repeatedly sends hostile messages or tries to make contact with another person via various forms of social media. Harassment is a problem in today's society, and it manifests itself in many forms. The majority of the victim's interactions will be hostile or threatening.

 

Without the target's knowledge or consent, "doxing" occurs when someone posts the target's personally identifying information (PII) online, such as their name, address, and phone number. The psychological effects of doxing on the victim can be devastating.

 

Cyberstalking, like harassment, occurs when an offender repeatedly tries to make contact with a specific person; however, unlike harassment, cyberstalkers typically have strong feelings about the target, whether positive or negative. If someone is cyberstalking them, it's more probable that they'll take their behavior offline.

 

Without the person's knowledge or consent, sexually graphic or otherwise inappropriate photos of them are posted online or shared on revenge porn websites. Such photos are typically uploaded by an ex-lover who wants to embarrass and ruin the other person's reputation.

 

Swatting is the practice of falsely reporting an emergency at a specific location to the appropriate authorities. When armed response units arrive at a home or place of business, some residents or employees may resort to hitting others in an effort to instill a state of panic and fear in their neighbors. The online gaming community has a higher prevalence of swatting.

 

In the business realm, attacks can be used to flood a website with data, rendering it inaccessible and useless. Attacks on corporations have the potential to shake consumer trust, wreak havoc on a company's image, and even bring about its demise.

 

Someone gets slut shamed if they are publicly called out and labeled as a "slut" because of their actions or appearance. Sexting can lead to cyberbullying when the recipient's private photos or messages are leaked online. 

 

Bullying via electronic means is a growing problem all over the world. There has been widespread coverage in the media of incidences of cyberbullying directed against young people. Cyberbullying can harm a person in a number of different ways. Psychologically, emotionally, and bodily. Mentally, a person can get embarrassed, humiliated, lose confidence, and get anxious. Emotionally, an individual can feel ashamed, upset, and lonely. Physical effects often involve loss of sleep, tiredness, headaches, stomach aches, and other symptoms of distress.

 

People might not speak up or try to solve the problem if they fear ridicule or harassment from others. People have even taken their own lives as a direct result of cyberbullying.

 

Parents should learn about cyberbullying so they can take action if their child engages in such behavior. Incident reporting can be reinforced by using real-time automated reporting solutions like Text Someone. Students may be discouraged from engaging in cyberbullying if they see how easily their calls and emails can be traced.

 

As an ever-expanding field, the ideas surrounding information and communication technology are always developing. You don't have to be an expert, but familiarity with the fundamentals and awareness of developments in the field will help you communicate more effectively.

 

Nevertheless, it is vital to be aware of both the advantages and disadvantages. The potential hazards of this revolutionary technology must be carefully considered. To educate ourselves, raise public consciousness, and put an end to cyberbullying. Those involved in the sector need to protect others from harm caused by the misuse of this technology by taking the necessary precautions and understanding their moral obligation to do so.