Information technology is playing an increasingly important role in the work and personal lives of citizens. Computers, communications, digital information, software—the constituents of the information age—are everywhere.
Between those who search aggressively for opportunities to learn more about information technology and those who choose not to learn anything at all about information technology, there are many who recognize the potential value of information technology for their everyday lives and who realize that a better understanding of information technology will be helpful to them. This realization is based on several factors:
Information technology has entered our lives over a relatively brief period of time with little warning and essentially no formal educational preparation for most people.
Many who currently use information technology have only a limited understanding of the tools they use and a (probably correct) belief that they are underutilizing them.
Many citizens do not feel confident or in control when confronted by information technology, and they would like to be more certain of themselves.
There have been impressive claims for the potential benefits of information technology, and many would like to realize those benefits.
There is concern on the part of some citizens that changes implied by information technology embody potential risks to social values, freedoms or economic interests, etc., obligating them to become informed.