As I read the Prensky article, I did think about how my students are digital natives and the things that now exist for them that didn't necessarily exist for myself being a Millennial. Prensky did mention that today's methodology has to change so that teachers can learn to communicate in the language and style of their students. I agree with this statement because in my own work, I've had to be creative and even do my research to ensure that my students received the message I was presenting. I didn't change the meaning of what was being presented but I did changes its delivery. This describes my students because often times your credibility is based upon how relatable you are.
The McKenzie article did talk about the variance that occurs in the digital usage of todays learners. I do agree with the author's findings on the usage of video games which are more popular for boys. This is something that helps describe my students. They are videogame proned. McKenzie does paint a picture of how diverse technology is for this generation which would imply that their is diversity in processing and learning for todays student. The videos really show how K-12 students demand the use of technology and engagement. This is definitely fits my students. They require interaction and something that stuck out was that they have more unqualified teachers leading them during this digital age. The college video really showed how relevance plays a picture in obtaining an education. Its a cycle set up for so-called success when in actuality my students need different preparation to prepare them for the world. I liked the part on the video where the students were showing how they won't be prepared to deal with world issues such as war, poverty, etc. I can say that technology has brought about awareness of such issues. Students today now have access to a global canvas with a wealth of information.
What doesn't describe my students is Prensky's statement about this generation of students spending their entire lives surrounded by and using technology as if they have nothing else outside of their digital nativism. I do have very active students who pursue sports and social clubs that enhance their learning in alternative ways. I have students interested in social justice and leadership but then apply technology to only better connect their concerns. All of my students who are considered a part of the Millennial/Edge Generation are not just prone to technology and nothing else. This does not represent the majority of my students who are actively preparing for college. McKenzie also mentioned this concept about the vast variance of teens today.
Prensky failed to mention that technology in this digital era have done great things and awarded today's learners possibilities that did not exist years ago. Even in a professional stand point as we see technology used in an arena of careers such as medicine, engineering and even in military training, it is not the Generation Edge learners operating and running these technologies. We have successful Millennials, Generation X'ers and so on that have indeed adapted to the digital era. Due to limited research the Generation Edge articles left out how the upcoming generation will coexist with the past generation who were privileged to be apart of the birthing of technology.
Overall, I draw many similarities of my students who are indulged into social networks, instant gratification and creative storytelling. As digital natives there is indeed a brilliant population of the current generation using technology to make significant changes in the world opposed to the generational stereotype that they are just easily getting by. My students are geniuses with technology and as a great support to them, it is my job to relate, connect and help sharpen their toolbox for their future.
