The Digital Shift in the Classroom

A Changing World

It’s crazy to think about how much the world has transformed with technology. When I talked to my mom about it, she was baffled. I asked if she could have ever imagined technology advancing this far, and she admitted she never would have thought so.

Technology and the internet have reshaped how we interact, communicate, and learn. It seems like schools are adapting to this shift, and as a future educator, I know it’s essential to be aware of both the opportunities and challenges that come with this digital evolution.

Michael Wesch highlights the potential of online spaces to foster connection and engagement while challenging traditional schooling methods. This made me reflect on how YouTube allows people to share experiences and learn from one another. Just look at our learning project for example. There is so much to learn about decorative cakes and can be learned JUST ON YOUTUBE. I bet that is the same for a lot of skills…

Embracing Technology in the Classroom

As educators, there are have two choices: resist the shift and see technology as a problem, or embrace it.

By integrating technology, educators can:

• Connect students with peers and information around the world.
• Move beyond textbooks and classroom walls.
• Provide students with diverse perspectives and learning opportunities.

Teaching Digital Literacy

This ties into something that we have been talking about lately and it is the importance of digital literacy. Students need to learn how to assess online information to make sure it is accurate, use the internet responsibly, and balance screen time with real-life activities. The internet can be overwhelming but my goal is to teach my future students to navigate it safely and wisely.

Check out one of my favorite Ted Talks about digital literacy:

Finding Balance

Technology should be a tool for learning, not a distraction. This is so important!!!! I know my views going into my internship in the Fall of 2024 were much different than my views now. I used to strongly think “why should I give my students more screen time when most of them probably get more than enough of it outside of school?”. I truly believe now that balance is key. Teachers can create a balanced approach by mixing digital lessons with hands-on activities, encouraging class discussions, and ensuring time away from screens for real-world experiences.

Moving Forward

The digital world isn’t going away, so we need to help students navigate it with confidence. 

One useful resource I found is an article from the University of Iowa on integrating technology into the classroom. It offers great strategies on fostering digital literacy, choosing the right technology, and keeping students engaged with digital tools.

I encourage everyone to check it out—it has helpful information that definitely is valuable for my future classroom!

Reference:
Wesch, M. (2008). An anthropological introduction to YouTube. [YouTube video]. Retrieved from https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TPAO-lZ4_hU