New and emerging technologies - EdexcelImpact on society and culture

Society is defined as a group of people living as a community or organised group for a common purpose, and societies can exist within a workplace. The use of technology within societies is common and has its advantages and disadvantages.

Changes to working hours

The internet has made staying connected to work much easier, which can lead to a change in working hours for those who work in organisations that allow remote access to work systems. This also means that workers can pick their working hours to suit their personal needs, like childcare, which could lead to high job satisfaction. This can, however, can blur the boundaries for employees between work and personal life, which can lead to a decrease in efficiency and potential negative impacts on workers' personal lives.

Remote working

When a worker works away from the office it is known as remote working. A worker may choose to work from home or a cafe. The internet allows people who work in organisations which allow remote access to work systems. An advantage is flexibility in working hours to suit personal needs. A disadvantage is a worker can become isolated with limited interaction with co-workers.

Use of video conference meetings

The use of video calling has become common through mobile phones and increased internet connection speeds. Video conferencing is not new to the business world but these advances in technology have meant the quality of video and audio has significantly improved. Many businesses are choosing to have video conferences as it reduces costs of travel, especially where meetings need to be had with business in different countries.

Internet of Things (IoT)

When digital products are connected together using the internet it is known as ‘Internet of Things’ (IoT), eg remote access to a TV set top box to record a TV programme. IoT products rely on the internet, which can experience connection problems making reliability an issue.

Population movement within the EU

Members of the European Union are free to live and work in any state of the EU. When people move from one country to another to live and work it is known as migration.

In 2016, the UK voted to leave the EU, commonly known as ‘Brexit’.

Social segregation

It is common to find multicultural societies in developed countries, with people from different countries, faiths and backgrounds all living together. When people of one ethnicity live in one area it is referred to as ‘cluster’ living and social segregation. Social segregation leads to limited interaction with people from different backgrounds and sometimes difficulty accessing medical care, secure jobs and schooling.