with Tom Smith

When was the first computer built? What have computers been used for over human history? Why is the invention of the transistor so important for modern digital technology? Who are George Boole and Claude Shannon, and what role did they play in the invention of the digital computer? 

Tom will guide us through an overview of the steps people have taken on the journey towards our current digital reality. He will present some contributions from key people in history, showing us how different ideas and inventions have brought us from a world of abstract mathematics to baffling digital landscapes and public influence. This talk aims to distil 3,500 years of technological development into a 1-hour presentation. A discussion afterwards will explore the role of digital technology and AI in our modern world, with sharing some ideas on how the Waldorf movement can help to defend against some of the greater harms of modern smartphone use.

Tom is a co-founder of beehub (Brighton Evolving Education Hub) and has been involved in Waldorf education for over 10 years. Tom spent 5 years at the Brighton Waldorf school as the science, music & IT teacher. Having worked in mainstream, Waldorf and home education, he has developed a range of main lesson series based on modern digital technology and methods to deliver them to students in a thought out and conscious way. He is especially interested in seeking out the best ways to combine the qualities of Waldorf education with modern digital tools. Tom thinks the most important question being asked at the moment is 'what are the steps we need to take between the age of 8 to 18 to teach children how to use digital tools to improve and enhance their lives, while avoiding the addiction and other harms associated with smartphone use?'

All welcome, no need to book, no charge. Events are not recorded and zoom meetings are limited to 100 participants. Voluntary donations towards costs are gratefully received and can be made by cash donation on the day, transfer to a Nationwide account held for this purpose or via Paypal. 

Account name: Adrian Hotten, Nationwide, sort code: 07-01-16 account number: 31466776. Paypal to suejoanpeat@gmail.com