Digital Natives Versus Digital Immigrants
Today's world experiences a rapid increase in digital technology, drastically changing how people learn and connect. This change has a profound impact on the traditional methods of teaching and learning. Marc Prensky came up with the terms "Digital Natives" and "Digital Immigrants" to explain the differences between those who grew up with technology and those who learned to use it later in their lifetime. This concept helps us understand how two groups approach technology and integrate it into their lives (Prensky, 2001).
According to Prensky, what category do you fall into, and how has this affected your learning?
According to Prensky, "Digital Natives" are people who are born into the digital world and are comfortable with technology, while "Digital Immigrants" are those who were not born in the digital world and have to learn how to use these technologies as adults or at a later stage in their lives (Prensky, 2001)
. I categorize myself as a "Digital Native," according to Marc Prensky's definitions. Being 22 years old, I've grown up in a digital world where technology is an integral part of daily life, which has had a profound impact on my learning experiences and preferences.
I am comfortable using digital tools and devices for various tasks associated with learning. For example, when it comes to note-taking, I prefer using my computer and iPad rather than traditional pen and paper because it is more convenient. I've also utilized apps like Goodnotes and Notability to enhance my note-taking experience and organization. These apps have many exciting features: Goodnotes' features, allowing me to create digital notes, annotate PDF documents for different classes, and access my materials online without carrying all the books, making my learning more flexible and accessible.
Furthermore, I rely on digital tools like Google Calendar to stay organized and track important events and assignment deadlines. This digital Calendar not only helps me stay on top of my responsibilities effectively but also reflects my preference for technology.
In terms of learning methods, I prefer faster and more interactive learnings over traditional learning styles. I believe it aligns with the traits associated with Digital Natives. I often use online resources, YouTube videos, and other engaging softwares to help me learn the concepts taught in many classes, which might not be available to my parents, who were born in 1960.
Kirschner some of the myths associated with Prensky's findings. One of the myths he discusses is that being a 'digital native' doesn't necessarily mean one is 'digitally literate.'’ What does she mean?
In my opinion, she means that people growing up in a digital environment, or Digital Natives, do not necessarily understand how to use digital tools effectively and critically. Although being a digital native gives individuals an advantage in terms of comfortability and familiarity with technology, it doesn't guarantee they have gained digital literacy skills, which can be described as skills involving the ability to evaluate sources of information, critically analyze digital content, safely use and navigate the digital world (University of San Diego, 2023).
While 'digital natives' have been engaged in the digital since very young, they still need to learn and develop digitally literate skills. For instance, just because someone is good at using social media doesn't mean they can distinguish between accurate and false information shared on those platforms. They need to develop the critical thinking skills to evaluate online information. Another example I experienced is that I need to learn to distinguish and assess the credibility and reliability of online sources when conducting academic research.
Citation
Prensky, M. (2001). Digital Natives, digital immigrants. On the Horizon, 9(5), 1–6. https://doi.org/10.1108/10748120110424816
University of San Diego - Professional & Continuing Education. (2023). What is Digital Literacy? A complete guide for educators. University of San Diego - Professional & Continuing Education. https://pce.sandiego.edu/digital-literacy/
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