Blog Journal 2

I have been using Microsoft Word since I first learned to use a computer. In middle school, we were all required to take a class on how to use Word professionally (as well as Microsoft's other programs such as PowerPoint, Excel, and Publisher). As such, Word is my preferred word processing software because I have been using it to write my papers for a long time and its interface is the most natural for me to use. The only time I prefer to use any alternative is the occasional use of Google Docs when I need to collaborate with my peers on a document like in a group project or assignment. 

The ISTE Standard for Educators that is the most meaningful to me is probably "Citizen." This standard emphasizes the teacher's role in ensuring that students are engaging thoughtfully, respectfully, and ethically with technology and media. Especially as someone who plans to be an English teacher, the focus on making sure that students are able to use their skills to critically examine online sources and to distinguish between information that is or is not trustworthy is of the utmost importance. Additionally, the section of this standard about modeling and promoting students' management of digital identity and data privacy is crucial to their safe engagement with online resources. 

I don't agree with the label "digital native" for today's youth. As Prensky explains it, "digital natives" are people who grew up with the Internet, but this term seems so broad that it really doesn't mean anything useful. Just because someone grew up during a time in which the Internet has existed doesn't necessarily mean that they have had the privilege of having the access or the resources to be "native speakers" of it. Moreover, there are so-called "digital immigrants" who will inevitably know more about the Internet and all that comes with it than some "digital natives" who may have grown up taking all of the tools available to them for granted without learning how they work or how to use them to their full potential. I also don't think that being a "digital immigrant" is necessarily an excuse to lack digital fluency though. I believe it is the job of any teacher to consistently have an up-to-date understanding of any technologies that their students may be using because that understanding of their digital culture can be crucial to forming important connections. 

I don't really have a strong opinion one way or another on badges. To my knowledge, I have not received any badges except for maybe in games that I have played. Honestly, I don't really understand their appeal. I get that they are small indications of previous achievements, but I don't think that badges constitute a particularly compelling cause for effort on their own. That being said, If people enjoy their badges and feel very strongly about them then that's great and I am happy for them! 

BG