Waters, J. K. (2009, March). The kids are All Right. T-H-E Journal, Retrieved April 9, 2009, from www.thejournal.com/articles/24104
This article discusses a study conducted by the John D. and Catherine T. MacArthur Foundation called "Kids' Informal Learning With Digital Age Media: An Ethnographic Investigation of Innovative Knowledge Cultures." The study observed the daily online social networking interactions of 800 youths and their parents in attempt to understand how digital age media tools affect learning in children. The study concludes that online activity can be constructive for kids and actually essential for their success in the 21st century digital age. Out of the classroom, students are using digital media tools to maintain friendships through social networks and invest online time to explore interests they are passionate about with endless access to resources. John Waters, the author of this article, suggests teachers should tune into how digital media tools affect their students and use this in the classroom to further engage students in new ways.
Question 1: How could a teacher encourage and show support for student "interest-driven" online activity?
Answer 1: A teacher could frequently speak of his/her own online networks and areas of interests which are explored through digital media tools. Students could be encouraged to share their own online experiences, resources, and interests as well.
Question 2: How would you, as a teacher, help a parent understand the role digital media plays in their child's life?
Answer 2: I would hope to convey that online activity is constructive for students and not a waste of time. Whether they are networking to connect with friends or exploring items of interest, the self-initiated learning and online social networking experiences are essential for success in the 21st Century.
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