Digital Wisdom

Distance learning is in large part technology based and in digital format.  Based on  readings, technology is the primary means of communication in the distance learning format.  We also know that just one single form of technology is best for all learners.  In that regard, we as educators should cater to some extent to digital immigrants or those who have not grown up in the digital world.  Some forms of technology/delivery could be adapted to fit that learners needs. This also applies to preschoolers because they have not had the chance to become fully independent in the digital world. 

Based on the Prensky readings, educators should get to know their students and how they learn.  Those digital immigrants that are taking distance learning courses must be willing to accept technology and accept help with technology.  Some things to ease that transition could be to teach step by step and focus on one topic at a time.  We generally do that when teaching distance learning.  I would also be willing to incorporate legacy/traditional content along with digital content to ease that transition. The same concepts can be applied with preschoolers when incorporating technology.  Teach the concepts step by step and focus on one topic at a time.

One of the most important things that I took away from the Prenksy readings was that it is important to listen to the students and empart digital wisdom.   It is important to listen to the students an use technology to support their learning in the classroom. Through the Prensky readings, passion and inspiring teachers go hand in hand.  I can get to know the students and what they want to learn/what they are passionate about and work together with the students.

As I said in the previous statement: Through the Prensky readings, passion and inspiring go hand in hand.  I can get to know the students and what they want to learn/what they are passionate about and work together with the students. Instructors have the job to impart their passion of learning and their passion of the material to inspire the students.  Once the students are inspired, I should step back and provide the materials to allow them to continue.

Empathy on the other hand is something that a teacher needs to keep in mind.  Since distance learning lacks that personal connection it is extra important to really communicate and listen to the students and get to know them/how they are feeling.   Preschoolers are open with their feelings and empathy is one thing that is extremely important to make children comfortable in the classroom

References:

Prensky, M. (01, October 5). Digital Natives, Digital Immigrants. Retrieved April 9, 16, from http://www.marcprensky.com/writing/Prensky – Digital Natives, Digital Immigrants – Part1.pdf

Prensky, M. (2011). From Digital Natives to Digital Wisdom. Retrieved April 9, 16, from http://marcprensky.com/writing/Prensky-Intro_to_From_DN_to_DW.pdf

Prensky, M (2012). What Isn’t Technology Good At? Empathy!. Retrieved April 9, 16, from http://marcprensky.com/writing/Prensky-What_Isn’t_Technology_Good_At-EDTECH-Sept-Oct-1012.pdf

Prensky, M (2012). What Isn’t Technology Good At? Passion!. Retrieved April 9, 16, from http://marcprensky.com/writing/Prensky-What_Isn’t_Technology_Good_At-(Part%202)-EDTECH-Nov-Dec-1012.pdf