Session 9

The topic this week was on the future and emerging technology. Prof introduced some interesting technology to us. One of them was claytronics, which is a type of programmable matter that allows the users to create interactive 3D objects. This technology might be a new form of communication in the future, as it allows people to see, touch and feel, adding a new dimension to the way in which people can communicate. I think one of the greatest applications of this technology is in the design and engineering field, since it allows designers and the clients to be able to visualise their designs easily.

As shown in the video, claytronics may become widely used in future because it can be quickly changed into different objects, such that a single object can serve multiple purposes. It might even be able to project a physical entity of a person, even if the person is actually somewhere else. When this is possible, claytronics might possibly replace video conferencing as a new way of communicating.

Another topic that formed a large part of the week's class was augmented reality, where technology is used to add another layer above the real world such that more information about the person's immediate surroundings can be provided. This is a video by Google showing the possible uses of augmented reality, through Project Glass: 

The use of augmented reality is to enhance our perceptions of the world around us, and provide more information at the same time. There will be greater efficiency for anyone using this technology as the information provided is in real-time, hence there will be little time lag and the information will be mostly accurate (assuming that the information provided is from reliable sources). One potential application of this technology is in the tourism industry. There will no longer be a need for people to hire tour guides, buy guide books or ask for directions, since augmented reality can answer their questions. Language barriers might also be eliminated, as augmented reality can possibly act as a translation tool. Technology like this might also eliminate the need for a global lingua franca since people speaking different languages can communicate instantly through a translator that augmented reality may provide.

Rating: 9/10

This lesson showed me the possibilities that the future holds.