iPods, iPods, Everywhere  Students embrace new technologies By Mandie Mohsenzadegan Orange Staff Writer

Coming to campus in the early morning hours, it is impossible not to notice the vast number of students walking around with wires dangling from their ears. The object that these wires are often connected to is what continues to be an increasing fad at San Jose State University. This device is the ever-so-popular iPod, which was designed by Apple Computer.

According to Wikipedia.com, the iPod is described as a "brand of portable media players," and has become “the world’s best-selling digital audio player...one of the most popular consumer brands."

To San Jose State students, the iPod is a popular way to amuse and entertain themselves between classes and during downtime on campus. As San Jose State senior Mandy Ansari said, "I listen to iPods all the time...while on campus, in the car, on vacation...everywhere."

Despite its popular usage, many students agree that it hinders social interaction in a college setting. Senior Josipa Caran said, "I see people on campus, with white cords dangling from their hoods, and it makes them less approachable." Yet she also added that at times she herself uses iPods as a way to stop others from talking to her. "Sometimes I use headphones on purpose, even if I'm not listening to music, just so people would be less likely to bother me."

Senior Andy Chu also feels that iPods take away from the opportunity of conversing with fellow students. "I think headphones are just a material item used to deter people from interacting with each other; which is sad...many introverts feel comfortable with that, but that’s not me."

Junior Carey Serrano commented on the lack of communication with friends as a result of this technological phenomenon as well. "Without this technology, our relationships would improve. After all, we've all learned that communication is key in any kind of relationship," she said.

Broadcast Journalism professor Bob Rucker also shares concern about the effect of iPods on students. He said, "College is a time for facing and developing all communication skills...an unhealthy devotion to new technology, which enables you to escape or shuts you off from others, could prevent some students from getting everything out of college they should."

Some students are more optimistic about being part of the "iPod generation," as it is now starting to be called. In this past year, iPods have been updated to include technologies beyond audio, and are now streaming videos and transferring photos, among other things. Senior Christine Samra said, "I think iPods may have a huge impact on our classes soon...I hear classes may soon be podcasted, [receiving audio and video through multimedia files] which goes to show how far iPods are going, from a technological standpoint." Ansari also feels thankful for the innovation of iPods, as she said, “Apple is amazing...they are taking over the world! It’s sheer genius, really."

Rucker, while having pointed out the negative effects of iPods, discussed the positive aspects as well. "Our basic instinct as humans is to be curious, explore the unknown for ourselves, and broaden our knowledge through determination and experiences. Ipods are proving to be great teaching tools." He also believes that iPods can be integrated into classroom use, and said, "Faculty can greatly benefit from using them to connect more with students, and inspire them. We can literally plant visual seeds of inspiration and let basic human curiosity take it from there."

With technology continuing to advance, and technological devices such as iPods taking over college campuses, one thing is for certain; San Jose State students, at the heart of the Silicon Valley, are enthusiastically embracing these new innovations.

Related Links:
iTunes 
Apple 
Prof. Bob Rucker 

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