I agree with much of what William Ferriter said in his article, “Digitally Speaking / Positive Digital Footprints.” There is a great deal of fear surrounding the Internet, and in particular, student use of the Internet. My school district is a prime example. We are encouraged to increase our use of technology in order to create students with “21st century skills,” yet many sites continue to be blocked. My most recent frustration is in the blocking of Google Plus. I had set up communities for my students so that they could blog and respond to each other, only to find that I was unable to use them with students. I was directed to Google Classroom, which I have begun using, but it has limitations. Students can reply to my prompts, but there is no efficient way for them to respond to each other. In addition, the site can only be accessed by students or staff with a school gmail address. As far as creating a website, or personal learning hub, the only other options are Google Sites or Final Site if I want student access. It seems to me as if it is time to address the fear and open up the options if we truly want students who are technologically savvy.
Certainly, as Ferriter says, educating students about Internet safety is important. I also agree with his “tiered approach” which suggests more safety training for kids who are at risk for dangerous Internet behavior. In addition to safety training, kids need to see the Internet as more than just social media and a convenient source of information. As Ferriter points out, the Internet can be “a vehicle for collective action around ideas they believe in…” The Internet allows people to connect to groups and individuals they care about.
As important as it is for people to develop a “digital footprint,” I believe it’s important for kids to limit their time online, especially when they are young. Technology skills are important, but they should not take the place of physical activity and personal social interaction. An interesting article appeared in the New York Times recently entitled, Steve Jobs Was A Low Tech Parent. According to the article, the biggest danger of the Internet is addictive behavior; children under ten are especially vulnerable. It’s interesting that, as the article points out, many technology chief executives place strict limits on their children’s use of technology.
I continue to believe that it’s important to educate myself and my students to use technology constructively. The possibilities and benefits are endless. We must not be fearful of technology, but we must temper the use of the devices that have become an essential part of our lives.
Citations:
No comments:
Post a Comment