Enumerate different jobs that have disappeared because of computer technology, and discover why a Communication degree will last longer than others.

A Communication degree will not lose its value despite the fast-paced growth of technology and the kind of sci-fi-like technological advantages arising. Unless creators invent a machine that can think independently, write original thoughts, and communicate with emotions better than humans, the jobs of communication degree holders are not going away soon, more so for those with a Masters in communication. There are a few jobs, though, that have been replaced by computers and technology.

There are no more telephone switchboard operators. A few decades ago, there were thousands of these operators and Americans loved hearing their voices as they requested to be allowed to make an international telephone call. That was high-tech then.

There are no more telephone switchboard operators because there are no more switchboards to operate. Telephony is now so high-tech that wires barely seem to exist at all. Today, people can see the person on the other line and that used be just science fiction.

There are no more ticket booth operators. Train tickets are now issued by ticketing machines, and commuters enjoy the fact that technology has made train commuting faster and much easier. Similarly, bank tellers are threatened with losing their jobs since ATM machines are making banking much more convenient.

Internet banking is also cutting off so many bank tellers from the employment list. Who could have thought one could make deposits, withdraws and money transfers while slouching safely on a sofa at home? People now feel much safer since they won’t need to personally go to the bank carrying in or out a chunk of cash.

Librarians are also threatened. Who still goes to the library these days? The Internet is a vast virtual library that carries all sorts of information resources – books, articles, microfilms, films, photos, maps and so on – from anywhere in the world about any given topic available to man at a single click of a mouse.

Across industries there have been massive structural layoffs due the increased use of technology. Tasks such as computing, filing of documents and creation of databases used to be the job of a number of clerks or of an entire team. Today, all it needs is one computer.

The print industry is also creating ways so that print companies won’t run out of business. Anyone can produce reading materials these days with a computer, good printer and desktop printing software. Books, however, may not die out soon despite the fact that e-books are steadily making very good sales.

According to experts, jobs that are mostly mechanical and requiring very little cognitive load are in danger of being phased out. Filing clerks, vendors, operators, and so on are on the brink of fading away completely. But you should not fret because the computer industry has created new jobs such as computer technicians, broadband installers and so on, and entirely new industries, such as computer gaming and robotics.

Writers, editors, and communication specialists are here to stay because even in the new computer-based industries, writers and communications people are very employable. Corporations, both traditional and high-tech, need people to create communications pieces for their products or services using any and all forms of media. According to experts, jobs “that involve transferring knowledge from one area to another, or thinking broadly, creatively and integratively” will last a long time.