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Digital Natives. Impact on e-learning in schools. “One student walks across campus listening to an iPod; another is engrossed in text messaging on her cell phone. During class, they’re Googling , Instant Messaging and playing games- often at the same time.
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Digital Natives Impact on e-learning in schools
“One student walks across campus listening to an iPod; another is engrossed in text messaging on her cell phone. During class, they’re Googling, Instant Messaging and playing games- often at the same time. More likely to use the library as a gathering place than a resource, this is the Net Generation.” (Oblinger 2006 in Jones et al 2010)
Source: Online Identity Wiki Created by Mauricio Aguirre-PinedaUniversity of Manitoba, Faculty of Education online-identity.wikispaces.com accessed 10/5/11
Defining Digital Natives • Can this notion be defined? • Prensky(2001) recognised the dramatic change in the students of today. • The first generation to grow up with this new technology. Living their lives surrounded by computers, videogames, mobile phones- all of the tools and gadgets of the digital age. Source: ABS (2010) Household Use of Information Technology, Australia. 2008-2009
Assumptions • Changes to current teaching practice needs to be made to address the needs of these Digital Natives • Students skills distinguish them from previous generations and their teachers • As students live their lives immersed in technology, they therefore possess highly developed technology skills • All students are interested in, reliant upon and able to use technology
Implications • Does the popularity of ICT in everyday life determine its application to education? • A “one size fits all” model will not work • A digital divide exists • Students learning styles can not be generalised, cognitive differences must be recognised • Students use of technology differs inside and outside of the school setting • High use of technology does not equal high skill base
Recommendations • The use of ICT can enrich learning experiences and motivate and engage students • Differences must be recognised when implementing e-learning • Evaluate students technology skill base • Work towards developing critical thinking skills when using technology • Develop a whole school approaches to the implementation of e-learning