Introduction
In the fast-paced digital age, emerging technologies continue to reshape how we live, work, communicate, and interact with the world. From advanced artificial intelligence systems to interconnected devices through the Internet of Things (IoT), technological innovations are pushing the boundaries of possibility. Understanding these technologies is essential for learners to navigate the evolving digital landscape critically and responsibly. This module introduces key developments in artificial intelligence, internet and computing, IoT, and explores some of the grand challenges facing ICT today.
Objectives
By the end of this module, learners should be able to:
- Understand and explain major emerging technologies and their societal implications.
- Describe the developments in artificial intelligence, computing, and the Internet.
- Define the Internet of Things (IoT) and its applications.
- Identify some of the grand challenges in the field of ICT.
- Reflect on how these technologies affect their personal and professional lives.
Watch and Reflect
Title: “Future Watch: What’s Emerging?”
Instructions:
Watch the following short video on emerging technologies and reflect on the one that surprised or intrigued you the most. Write a short paragraph (5 – 7 sentences) answering:
- Which emerging technology caught your attention and why?
- How do you think it will impact your future?
Note: Write your answer in a half sheet of paper and submit them together with the activities in this module.
Discussion
Pushing the Boundaries of Artificial Intelligence
Artificial Intelligence (AI) has progressed from basic rule-based systems to highly autonomous tools that can learn and adapt. Today’s AI is capable of generating human-like responses (e.g., ChatGPT), detecting diseases, enhancing education through personalized platforms, and even driving vehicles autonomously. The boundaries of AI are continually being expanded by developments in generative AI, reinforcement learning, and machine learning interpretability. According to Russell and Norvig (2021), AI systems are now capable of complex tasks such as natural language processing, creative generation, and contextual problem-solving. These advancements raise critical questions about ethics, bias, and human-AI collaboration (Broussard, 2018).
Click this link to watch the video on how will Artificial intelligence change the world. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ga9dOBm4IuI
Internet and Computing
The evolution of computing has moved from mainframe systems to cloud computing and edge computing. Meanwhile, the Internet has become more than a communication tool—it’s now a vast ecosystem for social, economic, and political interaction. Cloud computing allows for remote data access and processing, while quantum computing, still in its infancy, promises revolutionary speed and power for solving complex problems. The World Economic Forum (2023) emphasizes that computing innovations will be critical to developing solutions in energy, security, and climate systems. Increased computing power also supports AI models and big data analytics, which are central to scientific research and industry today.
To know more about Quantum Computing, follow this link. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JhHMJCUmq28
Internet of Things (IoT)
The Internet of Things (IoT) refers to the network of physical objects – “things” – embedded with sensors, software, and other technologies to connect and exchange data with other devices and systems over the Internet. Everyday items such as smart watches, refrigerators, and even traffic lights are becoming part of this connected world. IoT enhances efficiency, allows for real-time monitoring, and supports predictive maintenance in industrial settings. However, it also introduces concerns about data privacy, security, and interoperability. As De Leon (2020) notes, the rise of smart environments calls for new digital literacy skills to manage devices responsibly and ethically.
Some Grand Challenges in ICT
Despite the promise of emerging technologies, the ICT field faces several grand challenges. These include ensuring cybersecurity, managing digital equity and inclusion, and mitigating the environmental impact of digital technologies. Data privacy remains a significant concern as more personal data is collected through AI and IoT systems. Additionally, the growing gap between those with access to digital technologies and those without (the digital divide) risks exacerbating existing inequalities (UNESCO, 2021). Ethical AI, sustainable tech development, and inclusive design are among the strategic priorities moving forward. Addressing these challenges requires a collaborative and interdisciplinary approach involving governments, technologists, and citizens alike.
The Ethics of Artificial Intelligence
Conclusion
Emerging technologies are driving a new era of innovation that will define the future of work, education, governance, and daily living. As digital citizens, learners must become informed and critical participants in this transformation. By understanding the capabilities and challenges of technologies such as AI, IoT, and advanced computing, individuals can harness their benefits while mitigating potential harms. Moving forward, the responsible and ethical development of these technologies is key to creating a more equitable and sustainable future.
Your Task:
Technology in My Life (Reflection Essay):
Write a short essay on how one emerging technology (e.g., AI or IoT) has impacted your life or could influence your career path. Write your answer in a half sheet of paper. Submit them together with your answer in the first activity on June 20, 2025.
References
Broussard, M. (2018). Artificial Unintelligence: How Computers Misunderstand the World. MIT Press.
De Leon, E. B. (2020). Digital Literacy: Empowering the 21st Century Learners. REX Book Store.
Russell, S., & Norvig, P. (2021). Artificial Intelligence: A Modern Approach (4th ed.). Pearson.
UNESCO. (2021). Digital Learning and ICT in Education: Policy and Practice. https://unesdoc.unesco.org/ark:/48223/pf0000377069
World Economic Forum. (2023). The Future of Jobs Report 2023. https://www.weforum.org/publications/the-future-of-jobs-report-2023/
