Our world has changed drastically, especially when it comes to how we communicate, learn, and engage with information. After watching Michael Wesch’s video and reflecting on our class lecture, it’s clear that we are living in a culture of participation, where anyone can create, share, and connect instantly. This shift has major implications for the future of education, both in the classroom and in schools as a whole.
One of the biggest takeaways for me is that traditional lessons just won’t cut it anymore. Students today live in a world of fast-moving content, short attention spans, and endless distractions… especially from their phones. As a future educator, I recognize that students will have a lower attention span for traditional lectures, and they may be less likely to participate in class discussions the way we did in the past. I’ll have to work harder to engage them through technology, collaborative projects, and platforms they already use. That might even mean keeping up with current slang and online trends so I can connect with students on their level.
Wesch’s video really emphasized the interconnectedness of online culture. Seeing people around the world dancing, lip-syncing, and creating together just for fun and self-expression was powerful. I loved how Soulja Boy’s “Crank Dat” dance became a global phenomenon, and the fact that Wesch’s video went viral without spending a dime (even beating out Super Bowl ads) shows just how much influence we all have now in this participatory culture.
As for schools, they can’t afford to stay stuck in the past. Technology and teaching methods need to be updated, and small things (like having phone pockets in class) may help manage distractions. But more importantly, we need to recognize that students connect with each other and the world primarily through their devices, and their social lives, learning, and even creative expression happen online. This means schools should be teaching not just with technology, but also about how to use it responsibly, creatively, and efficiently.
We also need to rethink what learning looks like. In a world where information is everywhere, memorizing facts is no longer the priority. The focus should shift away from standardized tests and toward critical thinking, digital literacy, and collaboration. Tools like ChatGPT and AI will become part of how students learn and solve problems, and rather than banning them, we should be teaching students how to use them effectively and ethically.
That said, we also need balance. With so much screen time, it’s important to set boundaries and limit unproductive tech use. But the possibilities are exciting too—we can even help students monetize their learning, turning creative class projects into real-world skills and content they can share with a wider audience.
Overall, Wesch’s message—and our lecture—reminded me that education must evolve alongside culture. The world is changing, and so must our classrooms.