Marc Prensky's discussion on "Digital Natives" versus "Digital Immigrants" was truly a thought-provoking one. He proposes that we use methodology that "Digital Natives" (my generation and younger) to teach young students, since they are familiar with it. Using a familiar methodology to teach unfamiliar content is a good idea, but would be very difficult to implement.
The problem is that while my generation is now entering the workforce as teachers, older teachers who are part of the "Digital Immigrant" generations are often uncomfortable with technology and the way that students now think. Prensky speaks of the necessity for teachers to adopt new technological habits to better teach their students. We must become familiar with Smartboards, document cameras, even CAD programs and building computers. Students have endless potential and will be more involved in learning "Legacy" information (traditional subjects) if they are put into a format that is interesting to the students.
How far is too far, though? Do we completely ditch the old system? Though Prensky doesn't completely advocate this, he does think that we should delve into technology in the classroom more so than relying on traditional methods.
I believe that teachers need to be sensitive to technology and to use it for the good of students, but I don't think that we should completely abandon traditional methods. We shouldn't completely abandon tried and true methods just to keep students entertained. They have to learn that there's more to life than technology or TV. As our world progresses further, they should be aware how to use technology for good, rather than just sitting around and playing videogames.
In short, we should expect students to be able to succeed with or without technology. We should use it to their advantage, but not necessarily abandon it completely. A book, a play, or painting with a brush and canvas can still be enjoyed, no matter how much technology develops.
Beth,
ReplyDeletePersonally I would agree with many of the questions you are asking concerning the technological advancements in the area of education, sometimes it even feels like a "necessary evil" to adapt to all these changes. But overall I believe that no matter how uncomfortable we are about learning new technology or implementing it we must do it. It is a process (that is for sure) but I also feel that it can be done slowly and given the appropriate focus because I agree fully that nothing can replace good teachers and hands-on learning. But I also think that we can create a balance that will utilize all of our technological resources and solid teaching. I am excited to enter a profession that is constantly changing and presenting the technology of our time for good learning, not just entertainment.
Lauryn Ernster :)