Journal 3 - NETS Five

Maguth, M., & Elliot, J. (2010,, February,). Using Podcasts to develop a global perspective. Learning and Leading with Technology, 5, Retrieved from http://www.iste.org


Journal number three is taken from “Keeping the Peace,” an article on L& L periodicals, written by Matt Levinson. This article focuses on the use of instant messaging in school and in the home. The issue arose when Nueva School learned “a tough lesson.” Students were given laptops to use for school purposes. This is not particularly uncommon in modern schools who have the financial means to afford such luxuries. The school quickly learned that these lap tops had been infiltrated by Ichat. There were unforeseen implications to the community.

Within a short while, instant messaging has become endemic. Many parents felt that there was “a strong disconnect,” between students, parents, and teachers as a result. There was also an issue with the student’s ability to focus in general. This is a symptom of poor education. The article points out that if Ichat had been introduced and utilized early on then these problems could be avoided. After a period of hot debate the district decided to ban the use of instant messaging in school. I think their efforts will be fruitless in the long run. The problem is not instant messaging. The problem is a new generation who is hooked on technology mixed with an older technologically inept generation who are reluctant to learn a second “techno” language.

PBS. Org presents this issue is a wonderfully insightful light. The documentary Digital Nation argues that technology has changed faster than the former generations can keep up with. Moreover our youngsters need to be educated on proper uses of technology. Issues like instant messaging are nothing compared to the dangers of taking shortcuts, cheating with the aid of technology, cyber bullying, health, and the endemic lack of human interaction. I think all schools must implement a technology usage course. Computers and instant messages wont go away. As educators we are responsible for molding students into economically viable adults. In this day and age technology is party of that task and must be embraced openly.