What do you make of the (divergent) positions of Boyd and Prensky (per our discussion in class and/or per the article above?) Boyd's stance on "digital natives"
The term "digital natives" implies that children will just teach themselves how to use technology. This has implications in widening the gap between children who have access to technology to explore and those who do not. Proper instruction allows everyone the same access to what is needed to be successful in the use of technology.
Prensky's stance on "digital natives"
The educational needs of children deemed "digital natives" are not being met by the outdated instructional methods that are used in schools. These children, who have been exposed to technology from an early age need to have technology integrated into their school day to learn to the best of their ability.
Alicia's stance on 'digital natives"
When the terms "digital native" and "digital immigrant" were discussed in class today it was the first time I had heard either term. During the class discussions both terms made perfect sense to me. As discussed in my earlier post I considered myself to be a "digital immigrant" while I considered my two young children to be "digital natives". Being "digital natives" my children are taking on technology like the took on the English language. They watched, they listened and when they tried for the first time it wasn't perfect , but they got their point across. Through repeated exposures to technology they learned more and more. They are not afraid to try and make mistakes and they can navigate the apps that the have found interesting on both my Iphone and Ipad. I can make an assumption that when I eventually let them get their hands on my laptop they will quickly find something that entertains them. This differs considerably from my own history with technology. When I acquire new technology I always ask for help. I need explicit instruction to try anything new. I do often feel like I am learning a new language and it is just as intimidating.
With that said, just because my children are native speakers of English it does not mean they need no further instruction in the language. When my children entered school they needed further instruction in speech and language, reading, spelling and writing, because although they could speak developmentally appropriate 5 year old English, they had a lot to learn about the English language and will continue to learn through adulthood.
My perception of a "digital native" is a child who was from a very early age exposed to and able to use and explore technology on a regular basis. These children now have a preliminary understanding of how to use technology for their enjoyment. They enjoy technology and feel comfortable using it. This does give them an edge over people who are taken on the use of technology as adults, but it does not mean that they need no further instruction in using technology. They need further instruction to develop age appropriate uses for technology and to ensure they are informed users.
Comments
Post a Comment