By Dr Elaine Garcia, Senior Programme Leader at London School of Business and Finance (LSBF)
We are currently living through unprecedented times in which we are all required to stay in our homes and socially isolate from our friends, family and communities by keeping our distance. Whilst this has been difficult and challenging for us all, what has become apparent is the important role technology now plays in connecting us all to each other.
Whilst we are physically not able to connect, tools such as Skype, Zoom and other video conferencing systems are allowing us to continue to work, collaborate and see each other on a daily basis. Many companies are encouraging workers to have a daily virtual coffee break and meet with their colleagues to discuss anything, from the difficulties of socially isolating to the new hobbies and past times people are adopting during this time.
Video conferencing software is also allowing families who may not be able to be together at the moment to still connect. Grandparents are reading bedtime stories to their grandchildren, children are speaking with their school friends and school lessons are, for some, continuing using this technology.
As well as on an interpersonal level, we are also able to connect on a wider level using software. Many companies, individuals and groups are now offering sessions online to keep us entertained. For example, a live pub quiz offered over social media recently had more than 90,000 participants on YouTube alone.
Other organisations are using webcams to keep up to date with the world outside of our houses. For example, Edinburgh Zoo has live webcams featuring several of its animals including penguins which can be viewed worldwide at a click of a button.
Additionally, social media is now, more than ever, keeping us connected to each other and to the world outside our front door. During this difficult time, sites such as Facebook are becoming more important in our daily lives and allowing us to catch up with each other and understand we are not alone.
Whilst overall technology is allowing us to connect more than ever it is important to note that this medium also provides ample opportunity for the spread of fake news as well as information overload which have a negative impact on our daily lives. Focusing on the current pandemic too much and seeing too many negative stories or conflicting information can cause anxiety to rise and individuals to feel overloaded.
It is important, therefore, that we use the technology that we have to connect with others in the right way. Remember to connect with those we may currently not be able to see in person, explore opportunities to see new things and try new experiences, and continue to keep some social connection even though we may currently be socially isolating.
Based within the UK Dr Elaine Garcia has worked within the education sector for over 20 years and holds a PhD from the University of Plymouth School of Management. Active researcher and speaker and author of over 20 journal papers, conference papers and book chapters.
