Discussion questions for April 21, 2009

sustainable.pdf
"Some Computer Science in Creating a Sustainable World"
Computer, Aug. 2008, pp. 102-105

1.  The authors make the case that the world's computers consume
a large amount of energy.  What recommendations do they suggest?
Are these changes difficult to implement?


2.  What are some ways in which users can use their hardware
more efficiently?


3.  In what ways can technology inform people of their role in
saving energy?


4.  This articled featured quite a few references to related work.
Which sound most interesting to you?

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natural disasters.pdf
"Rescuing Our Families, Our Neighbors, and Ourselves"
Communications of the ACM, Nov. 2005, pp. 29-31

5.  Who is the author?  How would you summarize his professional
biography in 2-3 sentences?


6.  What kinds of IT systems does the author point out as being
useful in responding to a natural disaster?  What about preparing
for disaster?


7.  What practical advice does the author have for individual
scientists and engineers?  Could his advice apply to other
professions?