I agree that the Internet is a very
important tool for classrooms and social justices classrooms in particular. The
internet allows students to explore the world like never before. Everything is
on the internet: pictures, articles, videos, and most importantly, other
people. In this instance, they are able to communicate with millions of people
at a time through blogging, website building, and social media. This real time
communication allows students to contact whomever they want to when and
wherever they want to. As a result, ideas can become very widespread. Published
in 2007, Morrell’s chapter illustrates the technological revolution at some of
its earliest stages. Now, in 2016, technology is even more intense and booming.
Each and everyday, students flood the hallways with smartphones that allow them
to communicate and interact with the world faster and easier than 2007. As a
result, almost all students have the technology and skills to be considered
“cyberpunks”.
The question is, how do we allow students
the opportunity to use technology in the classroom without distracting
education? I think Morrell does a great job suggesting such social justice
activities. One activity you can do is give students the opportunity to
research an issue that is important to them (dress code, school transportation,
poverty, etc.). Once all the research is done, the students can find a method
of creating social awareness such as a website, petition, letter to a local
politician, or a hashtag. This would ensure that students voice is heard and
spread throughout the community and digital world. In a digital age,
technological skills are highly important for success in everyday life. These
activities not only show students that they can make a difference, they also
teach important skills. While students learn how to conduct research and create
media (in line with the standards), they also learn electronic communication
which opens their world up to endless possibilities.
I really like your example of having students create awareness using media. I think a major issue that teachers raise is "what place does this have in the English curriculum?" I think an answer to that, which you also mentioned in your post, is that literacy in 2016 is not just reading and writing. Technology and media literacy are just as important. Doing a project like the one you suggested is the same as writing a traditional persuasive essay about an issue of the student's choice, except it allows them to learn critical media literacy skills along the way and gives them a space to connect their personal lives to their academic lives.
ReplyDeleteAmen to you both!
ReplyDelete