Thursday, January 2, 2014

"Digital Natives" - Myth or Reality?

Teens these days, and especially the younger age, are so comfortable with digital technology around them and seem to use that technology effortlessly.  There is even a phrase coined to describe it, "digital native", to distinguish them from the older age group, "digital immigrants".  But these simple terms seem to gloss over the reality, and even lead to some false assumptions.  Just because they're comfortable with technology and use it a lot, doesn't mean they use it well or productively.  Just because they Tweet and can Google Search doesn't mean they communicate responsibly or use technology purposefully.

I spotted this video segment on the PBS Ideas Channel and thought it was an interesting and thought provoking piece.  Like any skill or technique, it's not innate but has to be taught.


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