Digital Intelligence: The Psychology of Computer Learning and Literacy. - book review

Arts & Activities, May, 2002 by Ivan E. Johnson, Jerome J. Hausman

(2000; $19.95), by John H. Ingrain. Shrew Press, 2644 North Mozart, Chicago, IL 60647.

All who track the arts need to reflect upon the dramatic changes being brought about by the rapid expansion of digital media and technology. Make no mistake about it, different intellectual skills and abilities (accompanied by new ways and styles of thinking) will be required.

John Ingram's book, Digital Intelligence, provides a basic background for an understanding of digital intelligence: "the creative application of computer knowledge; the synergetic skills needed to author high-quality programs; visual; interactive, abstract thinking; the ability to solve problems in a non-linear way." The book is not written with the teaching of art in mind. Nevertheless, it would be an invaluable resource for art teachers who are writing curricula and seeking to connect what have been longstanding emphases in art education to present-day necessities. Ingram's theories give greater credibility and support for greater emphases upon creative choice, dynamic information storage based upon holistic memory, and nonlinear modes of problem solving. These are things that artists have been doing (and art educators have been advocating) for a long time.--J.J.H. For information about this publication, circle No. 378 on the Reader Service Card.