Next Generation Growing Up Online

This video by Frontline, "Growing Up Online," was very interesting and almost disturbing. Although I have known how the internet is one of the most common past times of teens, I did not realize how it has truly affected children in negative ways. I definitly think the internet and technology has many benefits and can be used in positive, productive ways but I also think it can have negative affects. The way the video depicts teens' frequent daily use of technology makes me feel more fearful of how effective I will be at teaching students and accomodating their educational needs. I agree that there is really no way for educators to avoid or ignore how technology is what students are most familiar with. The part of the video that disturbed me the most about teens and the internet was about the girl Jessica who created an alternative identity by using the internet. I feel it is important for parents or adults to monitor children and what content they are involved with on the internet. I think one of the most important things teachers and parents can do to protect and monitor kids' actions on the internet is by communicating with kids and placing restictions on internet usage. Another danger that caught my attention was about internet predators. It is important that parents monitor what their children are doing on the internet and making sure that they are not talking to anyone who may be of potential harm. Also, I was shocked and unaware that such sites existed that encouraged illnesses such as anorexia. It bothered me even more that most parents are often times also unaware, even when it may involve their own child. After watching this video, I think it is crucial that parents and teachers educate our children as much as possible about the benefits and downfalls of the internet. Children need to understand how to protect themselves and use technology to better their everyday lives.

technology belief statement

I believe educational technology is very important in both teaching and learning. I hope to use technology with my elementary students to enhance learning. I think technology is important to use with students beginning at an early age because it prepares them with the knowledge required to use technology in the "real-world."