Digital Natives and Digital Immigrants
According to Prensky, what category do you fall into and how has this affected your learning?
Although digital natives have grown up in a period of time filled with endless technology, oftentimes there is a misconception that we are well versed in all of the technological aspects. Despite the fact that younger generations seem to be digitally literate, many people lack technical skills and don't operate their devices in an effective and efficient manner. Digital natives may be knowledgeable when it comes to most social media platforms, but as far as understanding how certain applications work, being able to find and evaluate information, and safely operating technology, many people lack comprehension in those aspects. Adding to that, due to the limited digital literacy, people may have trouble deciphering information and evaluating the accuracy of a source. There is an abundance of articles, websites, and other falsified resources that are being shared which can have an impact on technologically illiterate individuals.
Kirschner some of the myths associated with Prensky’s findings. One of the myths that he discusses is how being a ‘digital native’ doesn’t necessarily mean one is ‘digitally literate’. What does she mean?
Personally, the digital native category suits me best. In my early years, my parents tried to limit my exposure to technology, but as its popularity grew, it was merely impossible. I have found that belonging to the digital native category groups me with others who have found difficulties in paying attention in lectures, reading from large textbooks, and limiting their technology use. I would say this accurately describes me in the sense that I often struggle when large amounts of patience and attention are necessary. I find my mind wandering and it is difficult for me to restrain myself from using my phone. Technology has allowed us to have information readily available within just a few clicks. If I lack knowledge in a certain area, rather than searching through books, I can use the internet. Due to the speedy nature of our phones, I resort to technology when I need to learn something. As a result of technology being so prevalent in my life, I have found that most of my knowledge comes from my phone. I often lack retention when reading from a textbook, but if I can learn through an interactive website online, I am able to recall that information later on. Although the digital age may have some downsides, I think that the way of learning is shifting and adapting to our current needs. It is virtually impossible to limit technology in today's world, so we should find alternative methods that incorporate digital aspects.