TAKING THE DIGITAL PLUNGE AS A TEACHER

GLAIZA P. ALFONSO Using digital tools in the classroom is one of the best ways to engage students. One powerful aspect of 21st century learning is the fact that everyone is already taking the digital plunge. Digitally speaking, it is also a fact that even our youngest students often have more knowledge about the logistics of electronic networking than we do.

So, what can we do about it? Experiment! I believe as educators, we should try every new tool that bursts onto the teenage radar and show students how these tools can translate into opportunities for learning.

We must consider the potential that students are very good at technology and we must recognized the power of technology.

If this makes sense to you but you haven’t created digital connections yourself, it’s time to start building your own personal learning network. Begin by signing up for social media accounts or better yet join an online community of educators discussing teaching and learning. Not ready to start an ongoing digital relationship with a bunch of strangers yet? Then start by following some of the good education blogs written by teachers.

Once you’ve taken your digital plunge, share with students how the digital connections you engage in enhance your skills and deepen your knowledge. Then, model learning transparently. The key to becoming an effective 21st century instructor is to become an efficient 21st century learner. Once you pair high-quality teaching with a meaningful understanding of today’s tools for networked learning, you’ll be prepared to support tomorrow’s networked kid. Ready to take the first step?

— oOo— I at Cabetican Elementary School, Bacolor South District The author is Teacher