Despite lockdown having increased engagement with technology, issues of trust and unequal access still remain, according to a new survey.<\/p>\n
Research from Nesta and Mark Diffley Consultancy has concluded there is a need for improved access to technology both for developing new skills and for the public to have their say on how they are used in an ethical way.<\/p>\n
While the Covid-19 lockdown led to greater reliance of technology, three quarters of people surveyed fear the impact it could have on the workforce, specifically the automation of jobs.<\/p>\n
Fears were also raised over how society could become reliant on contactless technology, and a rise in faceless communications with loved ones.<\/p>\n
The research also highlighted that some technological developments, both in the workplace and in society in a larger sense, are often seen as out of touch or elitist especially for those from a lower income background.<\/p>\n
However, the results show that as peoples knowledge and understanding of technology increases, so does their positivity towards those technologies.<\/p>\n
Adam Lang, head of Nesta in Scotland, said: This research shows that while people in Scotland are engaging with and viewing technology in a new light as a result of the Covid-19 lockdown, for too many the benefits still seem out of reach and beyond their control.<\/p>\n
The technologies that are driving the fourth industrial revolution are increasingly shaping many aspects of our personal and professional lives.<\/p>\n
Thats why its vital that we work to shift control and better engage the Scottish public, increasing the provision of high-quality training and skills development and considering new ways for citizens to shape and inform how these technologies are used in the delivery of public services.<\/p>\n
All of this must be done with a focus on driving trust through open, ethical and transparent processes.<\/p>\n
The social upheaval caused the Covid-19 pandemic is a chance for Scotland to set out a bold ambition for a new digital enlightenment that creates more opportunities for people to learn about and be engaged in shaping a tech-driven future that benefits us all as citizens more equally.<\/p>\n
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Mistrust and unequal access to technology highlighted by lockdown - Aberdeen Evening Express<\/a><\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":" Despite lockdown having increased engagement with technology, issues of trust and unequal access still remain, according to a new survey. Research from Nesta and Mark Diffley Consultancy has concluded there is a need for improved access to technology both for developing new skills and for the public to have their say on how they are used in an ethical way. Continue reading