Today we are connected 24/7/365 courtesy of digital technology. With respect to identity, there is pressure for our learners to present them self as an impressive, desirable type of person and to make sure that all postings confirm that sense of identity. If they do not get enough likes they will take down their post because they do not want to have negative comments or little to no likes.
Last week I had a conversation with my Cosmetology 1 class and asked them why that take posts down, and they said that they need to always present them self in a certain image for their followers. I then challenges them by saying that they should have the same pride about their school work. I wish you could of seen their faces, it was a sight to see. I'm a "Boomer" so this is foreign to me.
We as educators are told that we need to teach our learners twenty-first century skills and the "four Cs": Critical thinking, creative thinking, collaboration and community. But, most school systems in the United States call for the traditional standard tests. There are two sides of this digital learning and apps. debate. Those that are forward thinking and open to skills focused and the qualities of the digital world, and those defending the traditional skills, but seek to use digital media to increase the efficiency and effectiveness of existing delivery and assessment processes. I personally am on the second thought, because we should give learners a strong foundation, but also allowing for technology to enhance instruction/learning when needed, it shouldn't be the only medium for teaching.
What does the future classroom look like? I'm excited and apprehensive, because technology changes so quickly that we cannot keep up. Learners need a strong foundation, so that they can build a million dollar education. Just my two cents.
Here's a video that talks about some points in this blog:
https://youtu.be/Ui_rzJ8OYNc
It truly is changing real fast, our educational setting. This year alone, my school switched to one-on-one where students have their own device in the classroom. Regardless of whether or not all teachers are ready, it was done. What remains the same is our constant adaptability. We are thriving and will continue to do so in this constantly changing world.
ReplyDelete