The fact that 24% of teens are online "almost constantly" is pretty scary. Overall most of the statistics in the article didn't surprise me, but thinking about the generation just behind us being controlled by the internet is pretty sobering. My gut reaction is not criticism; it's more conviction that we should be on our phones so much less. But, as future teachers, I think that we have to somewhat embrace this phenomenon, and teach our students how to effectively and maturely utilize social media in a positive way. Honestly, it is kind of like this class; we are learning how to use technology well as future educators. I think we can teach our students to do the same by somehow incorporating social media in our practices, carefully and thoughtfully.
One result that surprised me is that Instagram and Snapchat are so far behind Facebook in terms of teen usage. My younger brother, who is 20, is part of this tech-obsessed generation, and I see him and his friends using Snapchat, Instagram, and Twitter much more than Facebook. I, personally, prefer Instagram to Facebook as well. Still, as a teacher, I think keeping up with these trends is important because we can use the mediums they are using to reach them. For example, if they are mostly on Facebook, we can use Facebook pages as teaching tools and ways to give updates. But, since 52% of teens are still on Instagram, we can use that as well.
In thinking about how to incorporate these social media findings in the classroom, I think about Vince, my teacher for Teaching, Democracy, and Schooling. In his class, he communicates in a relatable way. One day, he wanted us to use our phones to download an app for safety during his class. I think of him because I think he is a great example of how we can reach out to our teens, and meet them where they are at.
I couldn’t agree with you more about trying to embrace certain technology in the classroom. In terms of cell phones (depending on district policy), it is almost better to be upfront with students about how they should deal with these devices. Some districts allow students to bring their phones to class--and have the students keep them out on their desks, face down. If there is some time at the very end of class, students may be allowed to check their phones. Often when tough policies are in place prohibiting their use, kids take drastic measures to “hide” them and to “sneak” around using them. Girls keep them in their boots; boys keep them in their hoodie’s pockets. Then the students ask to use the bathroom--so that they can check their phones! It’s a never ending battle. The key is to find out your district’s policy about electronic devices in schools--and take it from there. Great post!
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