Review article
https://doi.org/10.21860/j.11.1.13
Crowd-Based Applications and Societal Challenges
Gilberto Marzano
; Laboratory of Pedagogical Technologies at the Research Institute of Regional Studies (REGI), Rezekne Academy of Technologies (Rēzeknes Tehnoloģiju Akadēmija), Latvia
Abstract
The spread of mobile technology and ubiquitous connectivity have opened great possibilities for
the implementation of applications that leverage data generated by normal users’ interactions
on the web. As a consequence, there is a growing interest in crowd-based applications, namely
those programs that involve people in a participatory or opportunistic way.
In many cases, data can be gathered automatically without user intervention and, in some
cases, even without their explicit knowledge. The possibility to elude a users’ awareness
fosters concerns regarding the potential risks hidden inside crowd-based applications. These
applications might compromise the privacy of citizens, whilst data collected by them might
be used to manipulate people’s opinions.
The governance of technology is a controversial area, and there is a wide array of different
positions on the matter. There are those who dogmatically argue the positive value of
technology, while others interpret the ongoing digital advancements as a dystopian menace.
This article focuses on crowd-based applications, highlighting some societal challenges and
risks that they may present.
Technology runs so fast that it is challenging to keep pace with the changes brought by the
digital revolution. However, an effort is required to extend the depth of digital knowledge of
citizens and involve them in the use of the new technologies, and in this endeavor, greater
knowledge is an essential step in any critical process.
Keywords
Hrčak ID:
240223
URI
Publication date:
18.6.2020.
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