In Michael Wesch’s YouTube video he states his belief that media is mediating human relationships. This means that media directly impacts and changes human relationships. Similarly, in class we discussed how:
Change in content + Change in tools = Change in relationships.
As a future educator it is important to understand how technology is impacting our relationships with our students. If we are unaware of the technology at play, we are out of touch with our students. This creates a disconnect and can negatively impact our ability to build and foster healthy relationships with our students. I see teachers’ relationships with their students being in a triangle with technology.
Michael discusses how technology is changing so rapidly that we can’t predict the new technology. This means we will have to be open to pivoting and rethinking our ways of doing things on a consistent basis. It is easier to be open to change and be willing to move with it versus against it. For me this also means I will have to be willing to go out of my comfort zone and be vulnerable, as there are bound to be mistakes along the learning process. Additionally, in class we talked about previous moments throughout history when similar doom and gloom feelings or on the other hand, feelings of high hopes for advancement in technology had arisen. I feel it is valuable to remember this when we are approached with everchanging technology, these are not new reactions, and we can learn from the past.
What Does This Mean for the Classroom?
In my future classroom, as an educator, in order to keep students engaged in learning it will be important for me to be innovative when presenting of the content I am wanting my students to learn. This means viewing technology as my friend/partner and not my enemy. I believe educating oneself and our students is the best way to balance the challenges of our new digital reality. While embracing that technology does open the playing field for a level of collaboration that wasn’t possible before. Also, it is important to note that we are role models to our students, they are like sponges that absorb and copy the actions of the adults in their lives, so one must exhibit healthy technology use in front of our students. Like anything, there are pros and cons and too much of anything isn’t good for you. Balance is key and we must find a way to create a healthy relationship with our new reality. It is a learning process and I believe it is okay to learn alongside our students.
I agree, technology is not the enemy. Finding an appropriate balance for our students and not mandating technological bans is key for students to properly navigate our world.
Hi Amber, Thanks for your Post!I completely agree with your perspective on how technology is shaping relationships in the classroom. The analogy of a triangle with the teacher, student, and technology is powerful because it highlights the interconnectedness of these elements. Just as Michael Wesch emphasizes, the rapid pace of technological change requires educators to be adaptable and open to continuous learning. Your willingness to embrace vulnerability and step outside your comfort zone is essential in modeling that growth mindset for your students.
I appreciate how you highlighted the importance of embracing technology in the classroom and staying adaptable. Being open to change and learning alongside our students helps create a more positive, collaborative environment. When used properly, technology is a powerful tool for engagement and growth!