It is really quite amazing to see how far technology has evolved over the years. Today, I find it really hard to even imagine a world without laptops, smartphones, or access to wifi almost everywhere, but in reality that 'semi-disconnected' world existed only a mere 10 years ago. Ten years ago we all had dial-up internet and relied on the good old landline as a primary form of communication. I encourage you to check out this video about the evolution of technology over the years to really explain how far we have come as a digital-connected society: Past and Present. This video lay's out how specific technology has transformed over the years. It is truly incredible to witness a world that has advanced so much in such a short time period. It makes me wonder how much further we can continue our advancements.
I personally had a very unique experience with technology. I was born into a world that I would define as a sort of in-between in a way. Somewhere partway to where we are now. I was able to experience both a disconnected world as well as a world that is dependent on the use of technology for almost everything. In my classroom experience growing up, my school shared one computer lab, each class had one of those overhead projectors, and it was the best day ever when the old box tv was wheeled in for movie day (see pictures below for that nostalgia feeling). Though this technology was a large part of my school experience I also was able to experience newer technology working its way into the building. As an upcoming teacher now I use technology in nearly every lesson, and it is a nightmare when that technology fails. It is great that we have access to such amazing tools in the classroom, but what is this technology-dependent world doing to our youth?
The youth growing up in today's day and age are oblivious to a technology deprived world. From what I have experienced this generation grew up always having access to a screen of some sort. This can be viewed in both a positive and negative light. I believe that we need to fully embrace technology and not hide or run from it, but it is incredibly important to educate youth on using it safely. Teaching at the middle year's age level, I have encountered numerous students experiencing the dangers of social media. In the article Teens Social Media Habits and Experiences, the idea of social media adding social pressure, and drama is discussed. Bullying has become much more accessible through this technology-dependent world. Online or cyberbullying has become mainstream due to the appeal and ability to hide behind a screen. Keyboard warriors is a term that has emerged over the years that perfectly describes someone who develops the confidence to voice something online that they may never have had in a face-to-face encounter. It has become incredibly important in the education world to layout time to discuss the dangers of our digitally advanced world and even more in this past year. Covid has pushed us even more so to turn to our screens as our 'safest' form of communication. Safe from infecting others with a virus or disease, but has this expose us to numerous other dangers? Our world has developed incredibly fast, but it is also our job as teachers to adapt and inform our students to be cautious and safe in this digital age.
Check out the video below to help better inform students on cyber safety.
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