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A Teacher's Journal: The Digitally Connected Kid
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I've been doing a lot of reading and writing lately about teaching with techology---which is something I'm both personally and professionally drawn to.
And you know what, I'm pretty convinced that kids today are just plain wired differently. After all, they've grown up connected, haven't they? The constant stimulation and instant gratification of the Web---not to mention increasingly interactive television programs and video games---can be difficult for me to compete with!
Sometimes, I find myself frustrated by my kids. "Why won't they just sit still and listen?" I grumble. "After all, that's how I learned----and it's good enough for them too!"
Sound familiar?
But I also believe that as professional educator, it's my job to tailor my instruction to meet the needs of my ever-changing student population---rather than simply demand that my students adapt to the reality of my classroom.
To that end, I figured I'd share a few articles with you that are shaping my thinking about the digitally connected kid:
1. Digital Natives, Digital Immigrants: This 2001 Marc Prensky piece is an amazingly approachable description of the differences between those who see no separation between technology and life---and those who have to work to make technology work for them!
It's kind of a defining selection for anyone interested in understanding how technology has changed our kids.
2. A 14-year Old Talks Educational Technology: Ever wonder what runs through the minds of our students when thinking about technology in schools? Then check out this piece, drawn from an interview with a tech-driven kid named Arthus.
May as well hear it from the horse's mouth, right?
How has technology changed the lives of the kids in your life? Are the changes something positive that we should embrace...or are they completely overrated? Do our children use technology for meaningful, creative purposes...or is it just a simple form of entertainment?
Are schools prepared to teach students who were born in an era when digital tools were nearly ubiquitous...or are we hopelessly stuck in a forgotten time and simply resistant to change? Should finding ways to make digitally enhanced classrooms a reality be a top priority in our county?
I guess I'm stuck with more questions than I have answers today!
Posted by William Ferriter at 03:39 PM on January 13, 2008 | Leave Feedback
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