Growing Up Online: Video

1). How does this video impact your thinking about technology's role in the lives of young learners?

This video was very intriguing; in fact, it profusely impacted my thinking about technology’s role in the lives of young learners. First off, I think students in high school should view this video because the video would give them a different outlook on technology; especially in cyberspace such as MySpace and Facebook. As I watched this video, it made me think twice about technology involving cyberspace. I was not well informed about the “damages”, if you will, that cyberspace can do to young learners. Now, that I am well aware of what some technology can do to some young learners, it would be in my best interest as a future teacher to promote safety with technology; particularly in cyberspace. I knew of the risks that could occur, involving predators, but I never knew about cyber bullying or how young learners could be someone else online.

Through this video, my positive outlook on technology has diminished a little bit. I know cyberspace and Weblogs are different, but at the same time they share the similarity of being open to the public. If some parents are concerned about their child’s life to the extent of monitoring their access to Internet; for example having the computer in the kitchen, then parents would feel like their child is going behind their back when at school. On Facebook, anyone can see that you have a profile. They (the public) may not see your whole profile or access it, but they are able to see that you an account. Concisely, the public is also able to view one’s blog. Weblogs are supposed to be used for academic resources, a way of reflecting on homework however, there are some students that display personal information that could possibly harm their identity. Now, I am hesitant about technology’s role involving younger learners.
2). What will you do differently as a future teacher as a direct result of this new thinking?

As a future teacher, I would approach technology very carefully as a direct result to this new thinking. The reason I would approach technology carefully is because to keep the students safe. If I were teaching at the elementary level, I would try to find a video that helps interpret this video. I think it is important for students to know of the dangers when it comes to technology and how to approach it carefully. Before using any technology at a young age, I would ask of parent’s approval. I believe it is important to let the parents know what you have planned for your curriculum and how you will use that certain technology. If I decide to use weblogs as a way of reflection, I would make sure no student’s name is apparent and also discuss that it is just a reflection of an assignment. I would also direct them to confront myself or a parent if they had any concerns about privacy/safety.
            In the future, I really do hope to incorporate technology as a way of learning, but I want all my students and parents to feel safe while working with technology that could possibly be viewed by the public.