I'm excited to introduce my first-ever guest blogger! I met Jenifer Phillips last year when we both taught at the same charter school. She teaches computer skills to elementary-aged students and is a technology literacy guru! I can always count on her to answer my questions and give me a techie spin on my ideas! Enjoy!
The U.S. Department of Education (1996) defines technology literacy as "computer skills and the ability to use computers and other technology to improve learning, productivity, and performance." In today’s society, everything relies on or incorporates technology more and more. Doctor’s offices are starting to use electronic medical records, teachers are using online grade books, and there are even ways to use an app or website to keep track of your grocery list!
Technology is something is always around and is constantly changing. Technology is not only becoming more readily available, but it’s becoming faster, smarter, smaller, and more affordable. It’s definitely something that will not be going away anytime soon.
Thus, the importance of being technologically literate is becoming a necessity. Most employers now assume that potential employees at least have the basic knowledge of how to use a computer and the Internet. Depending on the job, even more technological skills may be required. The dependency on computers is increasing in the workplace, in order for companies or schools to keep up with and compete as part of a global society.
However, it’s not easy to keep up with technology. Some people merely don’t feel as if they are very “tech savvy,” and thus may have a harder time learning the needed skills. It’s also difficult to keep up when the technologies are constantly changing and upgrading. Then, of course there comes the issue of money. Technology is not cheap, especially if you are wanting or needing the newest and latest version each phone, computer, Internet, tablet, etc. that exists.
While having the latest technology is desirable, it is also important that a person understands all that it encompasses. Not only do you have to understand how to operate the technology, but you need to understand how to use it safely and ethically. There are, unfortunately, so many ways that technology can be misused in order to hurt others’ reputations, feelings, or welfare. Education is the key to getting technology, using it correctly, and keeping up with the changes.
When asked how they feel about the importance of being technologically literate, two teachers had their own opinions:
Teacher L: “If you’re not up to date with technology, how are you going to keep up with today’s kids?”
Teacher S: "I don’t spend money on technology like some of my students’ families do. Thus, I feel behind in regards to learning the latest technologies. I wish our school offered us more training.”
Once we can get more businesses and schools to accept this
reality, then we might just get more and more people prepared better for the
job market that society has to offer.
Feel free to contact Jenifer
with any comments, questions, or resources by visiting:
You may also follow Jenifer on Twitter
@MrsPEdTechTalk.References:
Posts
1 comments:
Thanks again, Mari!! This looks great!
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