Literacies

My field study is about using Wikis as a place to display our work - whatever that work is, have students provide feedback on that work with the hopes that students will be able to take that feedback and become better communicators through it. Wikis are a place to collaborate together; provide feedback on each others work. Work doesn't have to be just writing - it could be video, photos, etc. Multi-literacies. Being able to communicate what one has learned is important - in what ever format that looks like. Literacy is more than just being able to read and write, it goes beyond that in the 21st century. Being able to understand, communicate, interpret, create, identify and compute more than just printed materials.

Myths about Technology

As I read the 5 myths about technology and all the stats I again am left with the question - what about Canada, what are the stats on technology use in our country? Why are we so far behind in publishing information?

As to whether I have those same assumptions listed in the article, "21st-Century Literacies", I really don't. 21-century literacy is not only about technology, the digital divide is not conquered just because schools have computers and internet, you don't need to be an expert to effectively use technology in instruction, and those who use technology in their personal lives don't necessarily use it in the classroom. I find that as I am learning the technology, I am better able to explain it to the students and they are great teachers. I also feel that computers and internet in the schools doesn't mean they are being used, or used well. I find that a lot of teachers use the computers to teach only typing skills or play games - that does not equal closing digital divide. Just some quick thoughts. . . .