The Difference Engine: Computing, Knowledge, and the Transformation of Learning

by Eugene F. Provenzo Jr.

Since the 1960s, the rapid evolution of technology has created a new cultural geography—a virtual geography. The Difference Engine: Computing, Knowledge and the Transformation of Learning offers a conscious critique of this change and its effects on contemporary culture and education. This engaging text assumes that we are at a critical moment—one where we are moving from a modern into a post-modern culture— and examines the seven key components of this change:

1. Hypertext/Hypermedia
2. Augmented Intelligence
3. Networked Information and Communication Systems
4. Collective Intelligence
5. Hyperreality
6. the Panoptic Sort
7. Mobile computing.

Deriving its name from Charles Babbage’s experimental calculating machine, also known as the first modern computer, The Difference Engine delineates these seven components, like those of the cogs and gears in Babbage’s engine. As the real power of the engine lies not in its parts, but in its combined reaction, Provenzo’s new book provides a unique perspective by assessing the result of this combination of technology, culture, and literacy.

174 pages, Hardcover

First published January 1, 2012

Reviews

[Susan · Rating 4 out of 5]

This well written book brings together the works of a wide variety of social and educational theorists on social constructs of computing technology. The chapter on the panoptic sort is particularly yummy. I appreciate the historical engravings.