……….you are seriously missing what the elementary level students can do.
Recently, at several conferences I have attended virtually or physically, I continue to be amazed at the amount of “websites and projects” that continue to be showcased are that of “high school level”. YET, some very good examples of use in the elementary grades are being over looked.
I also find it amusingly ironic that the thought of digital footprint awareness and digital responsibility seems to be most concentrated on starting in the high school/junior high level.
And I wonder — why are people not thinking beyond that??
Why is their vision not for the entire K12 population?
Tech etiquette, responsible internet use, controlling and being aware of your digital footprint, and participation and collaboration DOES NOT WAIT TO BEGIN until the student reaches 13 or junior high.
Perhaps it is just that my range of vision begins with the K6 area that I am more aware of this.
But I continue to see many session leaders talk about what students are doing in the upper grades and totally ignoring what is being done on the elementary level.
These are the stepping stones which will lead to greater possibilities when that child reaches junior high or high school.
Not a new skill, idea, recognition, responsibility — but one which they have been aware of for almost 8 – 10 years already.
I know that as a session leader, this next year, I do need to stretch myself to be aware of more things that are happening in the older grade levels.
But I believe other session leaders need to be aware of elementary as well.
Just my thoughts today
Jen
Jen,
There are so many great tools out there but the age restrictions of COPPA seem to handcuff a lot of elementary teachers’ ability to use them. These tools require the “teacher” to do a lot more in setting up the environment rather than giving the “student” ownership of the account. I agree the digital footprint doesn’t start at 13 but it is easier for precentors to address those 13 and older. It doesn’t make it right does it?
Eventually I feel like we’ll be talking about K-12 strategies/pedagogy when it comes to the “tools”. Keep fighting the good fight.
@Michael
you know — you are right.
I do need to remember that many sites do have the 13minimum restriction
but what about voice thread. That would be Collette
or blogs … Kathy Cassidy or Maria knee
or wikis … Lparisi
or just websites….lanise Jacoby
there are some. No many. That have found alternatives yet staying w/in the law
every so often it would be nice to hear about them
Perhaps it’s the same mentality that reduces or eliminates school libraries and elementary school library media specialists every time there is a budget crisis. K-8 is where those print, technology, and information literacy skills are introduced and shaped…(not to mention where the love of reading and books begins!)