Digital Literacy and Technology in the Classroom

Digital literacy is not limited to understanding how to use technology. It also involves a wide variety of ethical, social and reflective practice (L. Lane, personal communication, Mar 23, 2016). Use refers to implementing technological skills needed to engage with computers and the Internet. Understand is a set of skills required to help us make informed decisions regarding use online. Create describes the ability to produce and communicate using a variety of digital media tools (L.Lane, personal communication, Mar 23, 2016).

In discussing technology in the classroom it is important to note that our idea of technology is an evolving concept. When learning more about technology in education I found a Ted Talk conducted by Gregg Toppo (2012) called, “A different way to think about technology in education”.  This video poses several questions such as, “What kind of place should school be?” and “What should students do there?”. Technology refers to making use of tools and knowledge. Toppo (2012) describes that we have been using technology in the classroom for a very long time; however, the technology incorporated has taken on many different forms, ranging from books, chalkboards and paper to IPADS and other digital tools. Toppo (2012) points out that there has always been resistance to education. He recites quotes about technology that describe outrage over students using tools such as ball-point pens. It is an interesting perspective that technology keeps developing and is continually met with resistance. Tools that are iniquitous in today’s society were once revolutionary. It makes me wonder about what the future holds for technology in the classroom and how we will change our frame of reference on today’s ‘innovations’.

Toppo (2012) also discusses that teachers have reservations incorporating technology in the classroom. I think that this is an important issue to discuss because some teachers may be uncomfortable using technology in the classroom because they may not have enough experience using it and lack the time needed to gain a level of comfort. I think that if teachers understood more about technology in the classroom, they would be more willing to use it. Teacher education and professional development courses could be helpful in assisting teachers to feel more comfortable using technology in the classroom. In order to help students become digital literate teachers must also become 21st century learners and providing the necessary professional development is an important part of that objective.

Although there are many benefits of technology in the classroom I also  have reservations. For example, there is a teaching practices called, “Bring your own devices” . This involves a situation where teachers allow students to use their own devices to engage in classroom activities. I think this can be a very empowering activity; however, I can’t help but be concerned about this as an equity issue. What about the students who have less access to cell phones, ipads, or laptops. We run the risk of making false assumptions regarding the universality of technology. Another concern is the varying degrees of comfort level with technology based on access, as a result of economic, cultural, or social status. If technology is important for meeting curriculum objectives, then school boards need to ensure that technology is available for all. Children already have situations where they feel isolated based on socioeconomic status, as teachers we should be sensitive of these issues and not facilitate activities that create more opportunities for students to feel ostracized.

Another concern regarding digital literacy and technology in the classroom concerns children having Internet access without an appropriate understanding of the dangers involved. For example, children should be taught of the dangers of talking to strangers, and how webcams can be accessed without you being aware. This relates to the Understand concept discussed earlier and how we need to understand our actions and how to be safe online. While investigating how to be safe on the internet I found a resource provided by Edutopia (2012).  It outlines that a stranger you meet online is still a stranger and that we need to be careful what we discuss with individuals we meet online.  Here’s a helpful video that explains Internet safety to children!

In conclusion I think technology and digital literacy skills are fundamental skills that are necessary for children to become 21^st century learners. Like most teaching strategies and resources, technology in the classroom can be very helpful; however, we need to remain diligent to ensure issues such as safety, equity, and acceptance are always considered. 

References: 

Ted Talks (Producer)(2012, Nov 12) A different Way to think about technology in education: Gred Toppo. Retrieved from https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=D17P3kqB3_0

Edutopia (2012, June 4). How to Teach Internet Safety to Younger Elementary Students. Retrieved from http://www.edutopia.org/blog/internet-safety-younger-elementary-mary-beth-hertz