I found it interesting that the text suggested referring to technology as a verb rather than a noun. The way I see it, technology encompasses several of the parts of speech. It is a noun. But that's not to say that it is a simple noun, any more than an ocean (which is a noun) is just an ocean. It's also a verb. It supplies and requires action, events and even states of being. You might also consider the possibility that it's an adjective. It does, after all, describe, identify and qualify. And what about an Adverb? It answers the questions how, when, where and how much. I think if we're considering relabeling technology, we need to think of it in terms of what we want our students to be able to do with it. How can we teach students to use technology to communicate and collaborate and solve problems? It's not really about titling it at all. It's about embracing the possibility that technology can be and is interwoven into all of the realms of education, with or without our help and insight.
One thing I know for sure. The definition of literacy is growing. I don't think it's "changed" but I do think we've added more to the mix. As a result of technology we have more tools in our toolboxes today than say....10 years ago. More access, more do-dads, more functionality. Why not embrace those things? Our students are.
One thing I know for sure. The definition of literacy is growing. I don't think it's "changed" but I do think we've added more to the mix. As a result of technology we have more tools in our toolboxes today than say....10 years ago. More access, more do-dads, more functionality. Why not embrace those things? Our students are.
To imagine technology as a noun, verb, adjective, and even adverb is overwhelming, but you are right! I love the connections you were able to make between the parts of speech and technology. Literacy will always be about reading and writing, but it is growing like you said. We are constantly adding more to the description of what a literate person looks like, which encompasses technology.
ReplyDeleteI really loved the statement your comic makes! our students are so dependent on technology and have integrated it into virtually every aspect of their lives, so much so that sometimes I notice them struggling a bit to function in an environment without technology. It has, in my experience with high school students, become almost necessary to have technology as a part of every lesson and assignment in order to really reach the students and allow them to function to their fullest potential. Hand students a piece of paper and a pen and, aside from a lecture about killing trees, you get a blank stare a lot of the time. I think it is great that our students are so up-to-date and savvy regarding technology, but it is a struggle for teachers and schools to keep up with them, especially with regards to budget and training considerations.
ReplyDelete