BLOG POST#8 - The State of Generativity

Generativity refers to "a system's capacity to produce unanticipated change through unfiltered contributions from broad and varied audiences." (Zittrain, p. 70). Be sure you understand this definition well before you try to complete this assignment.

Part I. Choose one communication technology that we have discussed at some point in this class so far (or a specific instance or brand of it). State which technology you chose. Cite the reading or lecture where this technology was discussed or introduced.

Part II. Assess each of the features of generativity for the technology (as discussed in Zittrain, pp. 71-73). That is, assess the technology in terms of its:

• Leverage
• Adaptability
• Ease of Mastery
• Accessibility
• Transferability

Part III. Discuss one way that communication technologies are becoming either more or less generative. Which technologies? How? Why do you think this is? There might be some features or types of technologies that are becoming more generative, while other features or types of technologies are becoming less generative, so feel free to talk about some examples of each. Justify your answer using at least one concept or quote from the Zittrain reading.

Post an answer of at least 300 words to your blog.

DEADLINE: Thurs. Nov. 12 at 12 noon