Blog Post 2

    Growing up, I always used Microsoft Word for class. Anytime we submitted assignments or had to print out a document, it was through Microsoft Word. At the time I didn't know anything other than that, but once I got older and discovered Google Docs, my world changed. I like Google Docs so much more because many people can edit one document at a time. Group members can collaborate on ideas and turn in one single submission for class assignments. I also prefer the way Google Docs looks over Microsoft Word.

    The ISTE standard for educators is so important in the world of education. There are so many great points made about equality in the classroom, teaching students different than you, and much more. My favorite standard is being an advocate for equitable access. I believe not having access to class materials would make a student fall behind greatly. With a diverse student population, educators should be mindful of their students having access to technology and different learning opportunities, and if they don't have access to these things, they should advocate for their student.

    The term "digital natives" refers to people born in a time where digital technology already existed. Some people think of it as a derogatory word, but I see it more of a factual term. Although it can be used in a derogatory manner (ie, someone calling a kid a digital native when they simply answer their phone after 7pm), it isn't a bad thing to be a digital native. I definitely notice a difference in how I understand technology and digital media in the classroom and how my teachers did growing up. There were so many times the teacher asked one of the students for help turning on/off the digital board or working the projector. And now, when I teach dance to younger students, they show me things I didn't know my iPhone could do! It is funny to think this trend will keep going and each generation is just teaching the next.