Credit: [The Myth of Digital Native]
The term Digital Natives is one that was new to me, even after reading the articles on it. Honestly, I did not grasp hold of what exactly it was until I saw people debating it. From there I was able to get a better understanding of what the term entails.
Before I start discussing what my opinion is on the matter, I'll discuss what a Digital Native is, for all of you Digital Immigrants. A Digital Native is anyone who was born during or before the Digital Age. Although this time period arguably started in the late 20th century, the technology boom in the 90's through the new millennium brought fourth a generation who's day to day lives were immersed in technology. Now, these Digital Native have grown up to know more about computers then there former generational peers.
Anyone who doesn't fall into this generation, or who is technologically illiterate, is considered to be a Digital Immigrant. The following video gives a better look into Digital Natives and Digital Immigrant:
I do not have a concrete answer on rather or not Digital Native exist. I choose to take a moderate role in this decision. If I was to compare the technological savviness of myself in comparison to my parents, of course I would win. But at the same time I cannot assume that just because I grew up with technology, that a person who did not would be less able to operate a computer on my level or efficiency.
I think as it relates to the classroom, it is imperative that the teacher recognizes and agrees with both sides. Even though all children within a class are from the same Digital Generation, you cannot assume that all of the students have the capabilities or the means to do technological directed assignments. The only reason why I was successful using technology in school, was because I had the means, which afforded me the capabilities of learning about computers from home.
So, in this instance I can say that I partially took the side that I believe in, because I also believed in the opposing side. I saw the benefits of both sides, as well as the negatives of both. As future teachers I believe we have to see both sides, because we won't have one type of student. Believing in both sides means that we will make the proper steps in making sure that all students can learn on the same level, without any disparities.
References:
"Blog for a Furture Teacher." Digital Native: I'm Not All For it, September 2011. Web. 7 Sep 2012.
Prensky, Marc. "Digital Native, Digital Immigrants." October 2001. Web. 7 Sep 2012.
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