Digital Media in the 21st Century

EDUA 6382- Basic Applications of Media & Technology

Technology has continued to evolve in the twenty-first century, and digital tools such as cell phones, tablets, and computers have become essential to our lives. “Digital Media in Today’s Classrooms” by Wilson et al. (2016) highlights crucial aspects that can empower teachers and students to benefit from using digital media in their classrooms.

It is not a secret that students spend most of their day messaging, texting, gaming, and posting photos and videos on social media. The “Digital Media in Today’s Classroom” presents several pertinent statistics, including the following: "Recent screen-time statistics for today’s students are staggering. In fact, children aged eight to eighteen spend an estimated seven hours per day, on average, glaring into screens (American Academy of Pediatrics). Teenagers compose an average of 3,417 text messages per month (Bindley, 2011). And, the bedrooms of an estimated 97% of adolescents contain at least one electronic device (Aspen Education Group 2011)” (Winson et al. 2016). As teachers, it is essential to ensure that students use technology in a responsible manner.

Educators play an essential role in teaching, mentoring, and inspiring these twenty-first-century learners in using technology. Wilson et al. (2016) stated that interactive multimedia improves student engagement and creativity, offers personalized learning experiences, provides richer assessment opportunities, and enhances students' ability to relate classroom learning to real-life situations. The goal should be to create more interactive learning opportunities that allow students to use digital devices to write, engage, interact, and utilize technology to the fullest extent possible. Additionally, it is necessary to mentor students to become responsible digital citizens.

The twenty-first century is here, and students are ready for the reinvented classrooms for tomorrow. With the help of technology, teaching and learning methods have evolved, leading to increased student interest, engagement, and academic success. The resources provided this week show that technology significantly impacts education. However, it is essential to remember that while technology can enhance the education system, it cannot replace personalized learning. Let's embrace technology as a tool to make education more engaging and effective.

Additional Resources:

References

Wilson, D., Alaniz, K., & Sikora, J. (2016). Digital media in today’s classrooms: The Potential for Meaningful Teaching, Learning, and Assessment. Rowman & Littlefield.