Digital Natives, Digital Immigrants and Generational Theory
I found this week’s articles
interesting and very thought provoking. I think Prensky’s article stereotypes
students and the label of “Digital Natives” seems a little one sided. I agree
with McKenzie that Prensky’s article lacked supporting evidence for his theory.
As a high school computer
programming teacher I found my students were eager to learn to design and write
programs that were not games. As Prensky suggested the incorporation of games
in the learning process was the best way to get the students’ attention. In
addition I taught computer courses to senior citizens and found their interest
and eagerness was parallel and sometimes higher that the high school students.
I am concerned of the labels
presented by generational theory presented. I understand categorizing and
organizing learners in groups and recognizing their norms and styles to help
understand the student audience. However, I believe caution should be observed
as students are individuals and each has their own experience, hopes and dreams.
I felt the videos described my
students as they seem interested in learning how to understand the materials
presented and how the materials would be applied to their lives. Technology is
certainly a bigger part of the educational process for my students than I think
they realize. I believe sometimes they take technology for granted or assume
that everyone has access to the same technology.
