Computer Use 774
Bloggers D: Blog Post - 29 February 2017
The development in the industrial sector has led to huge technological advances, which in turn has led to changes in the ways we go about our daily lives. An example of where said changes have taken place can be seen in our approaches to teaching and learning. We are engaging in a shift from the chalkboard to the computer screen in the classroom. The following discussion will briefly explore how digital and media literacy can benefit both the teacher and the learner.
Bloggers D: Blog Post - 29 February 2017
The development in the industrial sector has led to huge technological advances, which in turn has led to changes in the ways we go about our daily lives. An example of where said changes have taken place can be seen in our approaches to teaching and learning. We are engaging in a shift from the chalkboard to the computer screen in the classroom. The following discussion will briefly explore how digital and media literacy can benefit both the teacher and the learner.
Traditionally, digital literacy refers to personal, technological, and intellectual skills necessary to participate in the digital world safely, wisely, and ethically (Media Smarts, 2017). Media literacy refers to the consumption of mass media in a critically engaging manner. The infiltration of digital practices in media means we cannot posit that digital literacy and media literacy are separate concepts. They are interrelated and mutually supporting in their constant flux of change and adaptation. Although most learners are digitally inclined, they still, however, lack the digital literacy skills to apply critical thinking to digital texts and approach the internet in a responsible and ethical manner. (Media Smarts, 2017). Therefore it is now the role of the educator to guide the learners and provide them with the necessary skills to do so. Thus, the educator aids the learners in the development of their digital literacy in order for digital pedagogy to function successfully.
Ericsson (2012) argues that textbooks and chalkboards no longer interest students, seeing as they are so reliant on digital stimulation. Through the implementation of digital pedagogy, learners will be able to comprehend, contextualise, and critically evaluate digital information in order to make informed decisions (Media Smarts, 2017).
“Knewton” and “Coursera” are examples of programs that can be used in the classroom to aid and develop the learning process. One of the major benefits of “Knewton” – which is an online aid – is its ability to predict failure in advance and, then to prevent it from happening again. The more people use it, the better and smarter the system gets which allows for more effective learning. It allows access to a lot of information and not just a textbook. “Coursera” offers high a quality product at a very low marginal cost for a student. Interactive videos allow the students to exchange ideas and questions. It also has various meaningful assessments and not just multiple choice exercises. The interactive basis allows the learners to form a community and ask questions that will be answered, and also creates a social experience.
One can thus argue that digital pedagogy benefits the learner, seeing as digital and media literacy is developed, and the learner is provided with a functional skills set in terms of searching for online information.
