These things are somehow, to my mind, closely related. Interactive and on-line technology, in hindsight, appears as a logical progression. They are on the same continuum of change and development. I think that while some would argue over the extent of the impact on the arts in the contemporary sense, it is just one of a long list of media that have been appropriated by artists as well as having a marked effect on education. Besides, computers are their 'thing'.
Computer technology is the icon of their generation and they revel in their greater knowledge.
We respect the ease, speed and infinite manipulation and variation that are possible with computers. Neither would any regression assist our students to confidently step into the future. Well certainly, being aware of the power of the image is very important. There is a great deal of research into the psychology of advertising and marketing. Being conscious of symbols and icons and all the other aspects of visual literacy is important.