Do you ever wonder how a toddler can pick up a cell phone, or another mobile device, and easily navigate the device without ever having to be instructed on how to use it? Or how students can multi-task with technology by texting, social media surfing, and watching television all at the same time? Our children are digital natives, and we are digital immigrants.
My belief is that we should all be “Digital Explorers.”
We live in a technology-driven society that provides us with quick and easy access to just about anything at anytime. Teachers can no longer use the, “I’m too old to learn tech” excuse, because technology is here to stay. As teachers, it is our job to protect our children from the dangers that exist, and help them develop healthy tech habits, and become responsible digital citizens.
Allow your students to use their tech knowledge to create real-world learning experiences inside and outside of the classroom.
Technology is more than gaming and web browsing. It can be a positive learning tool. This digital world we live in allows our kids to easily create, explore, collaborate, share ideas, and discover learning opportunities that weren’t accessible 20 years ago. There are more powerful technology tools today than in any generation before.
As such, allow your students to use their tech knowledge to create real-world learning experiences inside and outside of the classroom. Explore the wonderful things you can create with digital media like, sharing a class digital project with a family member who lives in a different city, or Skyping with a classroom in another part of the globe.
As an educator, you should provide your students with the 21st century skills they need to thrive and compete in a global society. Starting simple can equip you with the resources you need to help your students make smart decisions in the digital world where they live, work, and play.
