As educators, we blog about best practices in using technology and information for learning. We discuss the lives of our students outside of school and how they are connected and seemingly always “On” when it comes to their social networks—the New York Times just published an article entitled “Hooked on Gadgets, and Paying the Mental Price” that looks at some of the adverse effects of our always being connected. The author, Matt Richtel, combines research and a running narrative of one family’s gadget-filled lifestyle.
One focus of my work in the upcoming school year will be to work with students, staff, and parents to discuss using technology to support their values and reach their goals. We will examine what actions are needed to optimize technology and information gathering. We will also look at what steps need to be taken to lessen the influence of technology so that goals for family time, good communication, community involvement, etc. can be met. I also hope to discuss running a “screen-free week,” just as Jeff Utecht has in his schools.
I will work with elementary and middle school students to develop their information, technology, and media literacies. One of the big habits of mind that goes with all these skills is to focus intensely to gain understanding. Helping students to think about how they are using technology and information effectively and efficiently has to be a primary goal for any technology and information integration program.
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