24. Killing Me Microsoftly

Julia Keller talks about the role PowerPoint has in today's education and how it affects it. This tool is utilized by everyone everywhere in order to present information. People began to realize that the presentation of information is a good way to promote group communication, which helps cement the group's foundation. The introduction of the PowerPoint revolutionized the art of presentation, because the presenter's information could be neatly condensed into bullets and points, while being aesthetically pleasing. The problem with this tool is that it also changes the way people think about the material being presented. In their minds, they start to condense information the same way that PowerPoint does. Keller criticizes that people are becoming too dependent on PowerPoint. PowerPoint is limiting people's creativity, because people are all using the same tool, the same format, to present information. Some argue that although they are a necessity in today's modern world, they should not be used to teach children who should be learning how to connect ideas and think on their own. Yet, the problem is not with technology in itself, but the way that it is used. PowerPoint is meant to be used as a tool for teaching, not to become the definition of what teaching is. Yes, technology can be utilized in distorted ways, but if it is used correctly, it proves to be a great learning tool. 

Keller writes fantastically, but many times she is not able to make her ideas completely concrete. The narrative at the very start of the essay was a fantastic way to capture the attention of the audience quickly and effectively. The description of the scene creates tension and anxiousness in the reader. The author depends a lot on humor and figurative language to keep the attention of the reader fixed and engaged throughout her essay. Keller's style of writing is also very swift and direct, presenting idea after idea in a concise and exciting manner. However, at times, it seems as if the pace of the writing moves a little too quickly, which may confuse the reader. Additionally, there are many references to history that might help some readers to comprehend the claims of the author, but an excessive use of references may also confuse. It can distract the audience from the main idea being discussed and some of the references may not be known by all of the readers. Furthermore, the author also seems to unnecessarily mention her ideas more than once in other parts of the essay. This may cause her writing to seem repetitive or dull to some readers. And finally, especially at the end of her essay, Keller begins to overuse quotes from teachers, professors, and experts. Although this may be helpful to give her writing credibility, she rarely even provides her own input or ideas concerning the topic being discussed.