Wow, I feel like we should give up teaching until the next generation of tech kids become endorsed. There is so much in this 68 page document! I feel like two very different worlds are trying to teach and learn from each other. When I read about all the different interactions, skill development, media influences, problem solving, analysis, etc that goes on in this tech world, I feel extrememly old fashioned in my teaching.
For health we have state standards that relate perfectly with the skills kids are gaining and needing to learn as they interact with technology. These are accessing information, interpersonal communication, analyzing influences, decision making and advocacy. However, we don't have one unit that discusses or analyzes techology issues. In fact, health really views internet time as screen time and advocates reduction. On page 11, the article challenged my thoughts on the effects tech-media has on kids. As I read about the on line simulations that can occur and the first and second world role play activties, I feel like there is a huge participation gap between the kids and I.
Add in the multitasking section, and then I question ADD issues and class management suggestions. Is there a shift in how kids brains are evolving compared to pre tech-media kids? How does this fit in our American School System? When I ask kids to face me and focus on what I am saying, is it really necessary? If a kid can now check out a blog page and still hold an in depth conversation, should expectations for student self-management change?
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I find it very challenging to adjust to the "multitasking" students do these days, too! Are they really listening to me while they are doing 5 other things? I think their brains really are wired differently than ours.
Yes, Cathy, there have been shifts in brain development. There is current research that focuses on multi tasking and it's development among youth of today. Their brians are "wired" differently and they are able to track us without appearing to do so. There is some amazing literature out there to reinforce your idea/question. We have become old fashioned...
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