Davis, V. and Lindsay, J. (2010). Navigate the Digital Rapids. Learning and Leading. 37(6)
There is a fine line when encouraging students to research online, or use digital media. How does a teacher assure students remain on task? That they don't navigate somewhere that could land him or her in trouble? It is important not only to teach students about new technology, but also how to properly use these tools. And knowing the proper way to utilize the World Wide Web is important in the future of these students in the job world. This article suggests, “know what you're doing” - know the tools with which you are using, so that you may monitor and “customize” the project. Leaving too much open for students may lead to missing out on some of the content of the assignment. Teachers also need to emphasize that this is professional networking, not social. This includes language, tone, images, and quality, and a teacher may best display this by leading by example. Having a specific plan with plenty of examples is a great reference for students to use if unable to get immediate personal help. Students should be monitored, but also allowed to be creative and find different ways to gather information and connect with others on a topic – this is where knowledge of the technology (for the teacher) is a must.
Why is teaching students “digital citizenship” so important?
Students are much more technology savvy than we know. Unfortunately, it can really affect their school work. I hear from more and more teachers that students spell “you” as “u” and use abbreviations such as “LOL” in papers. When contacting professors or teachers, one may assume email is casual and forget capital letters and spelling. This is a very important lesson to teach our students. There is a huge difference between social and professional.
How can I ever be a step ahead of my students?
Read, read, read. And research. No matter what, I worry that my students will giggle when I try and teach them things that involve any type of technology. However, if I keep up with my learning, at least I may be able to answer questions and show students tips and shortcuts. And getting tips from students is a possibility, too. As long as I know and understand the technology well enough, hopefully the lesson can't go too wrong?
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