The Net Geners

The assigned reading of chapter eight was very interesting and I enjoyed seeing statistical data about the usage of technology. It is not a secret that the majority of educational settings have computers and the ability to access internet. High-speed classroom connectivity is good, but for some reason, internet isn’t used in the classroom, but most often Internet usage takes place in media centers or computer labs. This I found surprising, because the capabilities of the internet are endless and I believe teachers can find very useful and appropriate tools from the internet which can improve children’s education. Youth are engulfed by the internet in their free time, but educators neglect to find ways to use it in an educational setting.

The study went on to suggest that Internet re­sources are not yet fully integrated into the day-to-day classroom routine. This was so disappointing to me and I am so happy that I am taking this course which can help me integrate technology into my classroom. The study showed that 56 percent of respondents to the study identified integrating technology into the classroom or learning experience as their top technology challenge. After participating in this class, incorporating technology wont be a challenge and I will use technology effectively and usefully.

What surprised me in the readings was how “Net Genres” are using technology in the undergraduate levels. Undergraduates reported a positive impact of the Internet on their aca­demic experience, but when analyzing the data, it showed that internet usage beyond e-mail remains relatively low. This was surprising to see from a generation which grew up and used these technologies. I do admit that I would respond to the questions the same way, but I thought that the internet would be used for much more because of the amount youth use the internet.

I really enjoyed all of the questions and thought that the information was useful and can impact the way people view technology. One question I would add, is ask undergraduates what they would do to improve IT services, so that it is used for more then email and asking about grades.