Where's the Mouse?

It's easy to say that today's digital natives learn differently than we do, and so therefore we as teachers need to adapt our methods. There is another take on the issue, however, and it is the idea that anyone, given the chance to create and share and be a part of the experience in front of them, will jump at the chance to do so. Simply put, if we engage learners and give them opportunities to participate in their learning experiences in rich and meaningful ways, we'll have a greater chance to capture their interest and energy. In this light, it's possible to think that today's digital natives aren't different from digital immigrants. It's just that they are the first group of people given the opportunity to participate fully in the media that surrounds them.

For an interesting perspective on the matter, take a look at this video by Clay Shirky, who is a prominent futurist. In this piece he is speaking about media in society, but the parallels to education are unmistakable.

Step 1: Video (about 5 minutes)

Please watch the following video, "Where's the Mouse?" As you watch the piece, think about whether you think his discussion applies to education and today's classrooms.

Step 2: Reaction (about 15-25 minutes)
Take a few minutes to think about the video, and then go to this forum and write three paragraphs in reply to the following:

In what ways do or don't Shirky's comments apply to education?
How do you bring the "mouse" to your current classrooms?
In a paragraph, share one of your favorite activities as a teacher.

Enjoy!

Last modified: Tuesday, April 27, 2010, 3:24 PM