Communication in the future – a gentle movement toward augmentation, part 2

In part one we discussed the potential usage of augmentation (smartwatches, and smart glasses). We also argued that further technological augmentation is inevitable. Therefore, our role is to use augmentation for good. In this spirit, we continue our discussion.

A curriculum for communication

*(why the word curriculum?)

Before we attempt to discuss a curriculum let’s separate different areas of communication, and focus on what is relevant. One can divide communication into many different categories, but let’s differentiate the following types for our purposes.

Verbal
Non-verbal
Written
Visual
Active listening

[1]
“Five Types of Communication – Graduate College of Drexel University,” Graduate College of Drexel University, 2018. https://drexel.edu/graduatecollege/professional-development/blog/2018/July/Five-types-of-communication/ (accessed Jan. 03, 2023).

We will be exploring these types of communication through the following lense:

Early-childhood
Adolescent
Professional
Political and social discourse over social media and in-person

However, our primary focus is political and social discourse. Specifically, how can we have better political/religious and social discussions through augmentation?

The anchor of the curriculum

The anchor has to be “logic”. No question about it. So that’s where it all needs to start.

Early-childhood and Adolescent

We have to be extremely careful when it comes to our children and technology. Unfortunately, over the last couple of decades, we have made all of our children addicts through the use of smartphones. Their dopamine levels are constantly depleted. The antidote is perhaps another technology, Neurofeedback.

“Neurofeedback is a kind of biofeedback, which teaches self-control of brain functions to subjects by measuring brain waves and providing a feedback signal. “

[1]
H. Marzbani, H. Marateb, and M. Mansourian, “Methodological Note: Neurofeedback: A Comprehensive Review on System Design, Methodology and Clinical Applications,” Basic and Clinical Neuroscience Journal, vol. 7, no. 2, 2016, doi: 10.15412/j.bcn.03070208.

Use of Neurofeedback

The usage of Neurofeedback will be part of early-childhood education. Today, there are many medical practices that use neurofeedback as a mechanism to treat anxiety disorders. They use video games to correct behavior and treat overactive areas of the brain. Here is a great introduction through the lens of a Psychiatrist :

S. Chandra, “What is Neurofeedback? A Psychiatrist’s Perspective – SURUCHI CHANDRA M.D.,” SURUCHI CHANDRA M.D., Aug. 24, 2021. https://chandramd.com/what-is-neurofeedback/ (accessed Jan. 03, 2023).

[1]
S. M. Butnik, “Neurofeedback in adolescents and adults with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder,” Journal of Clinical Psychology, vol. 61, no. 5, pp. 621–625, 2005, doi: 10.1002/jclp.20124.

Why the word curriculum?

In the future technological augmentation will be used throughout our lives. Perhaps, randomly. The word curriculum is used to emphasize that we have to be intentional and methodical and also implement good practices in our education system.