I believe that this video was helpful in giving us a visual of the digital divide. So far we have just looked at websites online, looked at statistics and data, and read articles about people's opinions on the matter. This video showed us real world examples of people attempting to overcome the digital divide, and I believe that gave me a better understanding of the situation that presents itself.
I enjoyed listening to the stories of young kids following their dreams and taking advantage of the technological opportunities out there. I also liked that many of these kids worked to pass their knowledge onto an even younger generation, further advancing our society in technological communication and literacy.
In regards to the technology high school, I don't necessarily think that it is a good idea to put kids in a specialized school at that young of an age. It makes it more difficult for the student to gain knowledge in other subjects and display his or herself as a well-rounded individual. It may be more beneficial for the student to make use of computers as a hobby, or through a club, or something of the sort. This way, the student may get the best of both worlds: knowledge of telecommunications AND traditional school subjects.
Video Reflection
14 years ago
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ReplyDeleteI want to briefly comment on your blog post, specifically the last paragraph about “tech high schools.” I personally think the idea is kind of absurd and actually didn’t even know that they existed until I saw that video.
ReplyDeleteI also disagree that they are an effective way to close the digital divide or make our nations’ youth more technologically savvy. Putting kid’s through an education based solely on technology does more harm than good in my opinion.
Additionally, I agree with you that students can benefit more from using computers as a hobby rather than a sole teaching tool. There is a reason why traditional forms of education have been utilized for decades. Integrating technology with traditional education is the key and these “tech high schools” are too extreme.
Basically I just wanted to agree with that part of your post… Nice.
in regards to making computers a hobby, what kind of time commitment does any high school have for a hobby such as computers? sure they could play around on the computer but to be as computer literate as the workforce seems to demand, how would they find that kind of time and commitment? epically for the students who are on the other side of the digital divide trying to cross over? they have a lot to overcome and asking them to comprehensively learn the ever-growing field of computers seems to be similar to the blanket response that is continuously causing the digital divide to be ignored.
ReplyDeletei thought that last paragraph was interesting. I didn't think about how focusing on a career could narrow your choices. They did mention in the movie that schools are suppose to teach a variety of skills, so that any student can choose the part he or she wants just in case they change their mind. It seems like we start leaning with a general knowledge base, and focus are learning into a specific area.
ReplyDeleteYour last paragraph really hit the nail on the head. These days we really need a well rounded individual. I think a Professor kept saying that during the movie as well. By specializing in only technology, students wont have the skills from other subjects needed to advance in life. Specializing is what college is for as we choose the majors we want to learn more about to eventually work in that field. Specialty schools truly help students at the college level (Art Schools, Culinary Schools..etc) as they are then able to refine and hone in on their skills for post-college work.
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