The paradoxical nature of information technology suggested by these dilemmas illustrates a genuine need for us to cultivate the ability to recognize and distinguish the destructive from the renewing aspects of information technology.

Such discernment can begin by answering the challenge to become fluent in information technology, acquiring not only practical computer skills but also

• a genuine understanding of the fundamental concepts and underlying operations of information technology systems
• an ability to think with and think about information technology—to formulate and communicate ideas with information technology, and to critique and reflect upon information technology

These pages were written by Jeffrey L. Nyhoff and Steven H. VanderLeest and edited by Nancy Zylstra
© 2005 Calvin University (formerly Calvin College), All Rights Reserved.

If you encounter technical errors, contact computing@calvin.edu.