From texting and social media to mobile news and sports, society is structured around advancements in technology that make our lives easier. People can shop at grocery stores or buy fast food, clean clothes and dishes with machines, and drive instead of walking. With all of these things, we have more free time now than ever in history. To reap the benefits of this easier life, it is essential to be competent with the technology that surrounds us. Less than two decades ago, signing up for college classes was all done on paper by appointments. There was no “Canvas” to update daily assignments. If you missed a day, you couldn’t just pull up missed assignments immediately! These are just a few examples of how technology has become crucial to our everyday lives. Teachers are encouraged to use technology in the classroom to prepare students for this.
The International Society for Technology in Education (ISTE) created standards for technology use in education. There are five different categories, each divided up into smaller subsections that outline the goals that should be met in order to make technology most effective in teaching. I noticed that most of these standards are the same as effective teaching strategies, but paired with technology. The standard that caught my eye for students is the “Knowledge Constructor.” This one encourages students to be able to parse through the sea of data online to find what they are looking for, including verified facts and contrary ideas in order to curate informed opinions. This is one that has become harder now, with a web that is scattered with things competing for our attention, which is why I believe it’s one of the most important.
One standard that seems the most unfamiliar is “Designer.” I don’t know if I’m confident yet in my ability to create my own interactive lesson with technology. Once I have a few more resources under my belt, I know I would be able to make a lesson plan based in technology.
In my experience, digital native holds some truth. It was coined over two decades ago when technology was just entering the general public for mass use. Because of this, it required more time to understand and use effectively. Over time, user interfaces have become friendlier as to accommodate people from different abilities. I’ve observed that generally, those born more than fifty years ago adapt to the changes more slowly. However, people born in the late 1900s and onward get a quick handle on these things. In the near future, I don’t think anyone will truly be a “digital immigrant.” I anticipate that I will have to adapt to new technology to teach my students, but because I was born using and learning with technology I will adapt quickly.
I completely agree with your statements about digital natives and immigrants. It is so much harder for older people to adjust to new technology. I'm fairly confident that I'll be able to adjust to new technology in the future quickly since I've grown up around it, but I'm sure all of our teachers thought they'd have no trouble either. I think it'll definitely be a challenge when it comes, but maybe not for as long as it was for our teachers.
ReplyDeleteI definitely agree with you, regarding digital natives and immigrants, Joe! I don't see digital immigrants being something that will be occurring, when technology and innovation continue to evolve. We can see by observing the generation below us that it will be increasingly easier to pick up on technology advances in the future.
ReplyDeleteSome interesting points. Seeing as some other have commented on your statement on digital natives and immigrants I'll address your statement on your the designer standard. Many people seem worried that they're presentations will not be effective if they are not professionally made. I remember going through high school one of my favorite teachers used power point everyday and all it was was a bullet list, a picture and red and black font. While no one was super impressed with his powerpoints we were captivated by his lectures and the way he explained the material to us. he used the power point to bounce off of and help HIM present. He did not help the power point present. This is something i think a lot of people have in their heads that when they are making a power point it has to be the center. As long as you are comfortable with your subject and a passionate your students wont mind a bland power point. :)
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