Introduction:
This interview was conducted by Deanna, with Lesta Burgess, an assitant professor at the
Univeristy of Northern Iowa. I first met Ms. Burgess through the Internet when she introduced
herself to me via e-mail.
What is your job title and position?
Assistant Professor of Graphic Communications in the Department of Industry at the University of Northern Iowa, Cedar Falls, IA. I am currently also the president-elect of the Student Division of the National Association of Industrial Technology (NAIT).
Do you enjoy your job, and why?
I love my job. One of the greatest joys I get is watching a student "get it" after struggling. I know that may sound atrocious, watching a student struggle. But part of my job includes giving the student the confidence to achieve their final goal. So when a student comes into my class and works hard to get to that finished product and makes it, then I know I have done my job. I also enjoy the fact that I am in a learning environment. There is so much the students can teach me and I am always willing to listen and learn from them.
Why do you think the Internet is important to our society?
The Internet is a great communication tool. Families and friends can stay in closer touch and in our society where they are often split, in different parts of the country or even world, this helps keep the nucleus together. Although, I must admit, I still like to write letters and use the postal service. The Internet is also an important tool for giving and receiving information. We can now be a true global society thanks to this communication process. I think it is important though to remember that not all information we find is accurate and factual.
How do you think the Net affects our youth and our future?
I believe the Net affects everyone, not just the youth. I have a twelve year old son who has been around a computer and the Net since the age of three. He does not see it as anything extra-ordinarily special, just a part of his life. The students I teach are at the age where they have been introduced to the Net but many are still struggling with it. The greatest affect I believe has to be on our older generation. They are the ones who may have resisted the technology but many are willing and learning about the Net today. I do not see our kids or most of society hiding away in their rooms communicating only thru a machine as many wanted us to believe several years ago. This has not happened with my son nor his friends. They still get out and play...like I said...they just see it as a part of their lives. Yet, because of the Net they are able to experience global data both at home and in school, not just read about it. I believe the affect of the Net on our future will be much like the car..when we want to go somewhere, we get in and go. It will be just be another tool in our lives.
What is a Web-related title that you recommend and why?
Since I am an educator, I will have to refer to reference materials. My students are required to build web pages using both basic form and HTML. They do not get to use editors such as Front Page. So the book I recommend to all and is required by my students is HTML for the World Wide Web, Fourth Edition, by Elizabeth Castro, Peachpit Press. I believe Ms. Castro does a great job in definitions and examples. She provides clear, precise information in an easy, non-threatening understandable format. At this time, I do not have a second book to recommend.
What does the Web mean to you?
I love the Web. My first experience with the Net was in UNIX form with only text. If you wanted a graphic or photo, you had to build a "bridge" and then download it. From there, you would have to have some type of software to open it. You never knew what you were getting! The Web has grown significantly since then. I see it as a great communication tool and I use it extensively both personally and professionally. In my classes, we use WebCT. The students can communicate with each other and myself in an instant. Also, because of my job, I do a lot of research. The Web has given me the freedom to conduct this research from home during my hours (which are usually in the middle of the night, :)!) rather than having to run to the library during their hours.
How do you use the Net to your advantage?
First, I use the Net as a communication tool to others and to myself. I realize that may sound funny...communicating with myself. But I can work from home and send the materials online to my office. I use it as research tool so even though I may be working at home I am still here with my son. And I use the Net for enjoyment. I can spend hours just surfing and taking in the wealth of information and entertainment the Net can give us.
Do you have any additional comments?
I believe the Net is what we make it. We can use it productively or we can abuse it. I love the fact that all generations of people are accessing the WWW. What a great way to stay in touch and assist our life long learning! These are fun and exciting times and it is only going to get better with technology.
Thank you, Lesta.
Personal thanks goes out to Lesta Burgess for participating in my interview. I appreciate the fact that you have shared my site with your students. It has been nice to be acquainted with you.
