Blog Post 2: Digital Devices in Schools

In “Mobile Digital Devices” by Rebecca A. Hill, the author highlights issues surrounding the use of mobile devices in schools, such as distractions, the digital divide as well as firewalls and filters. While some schools prohibit cell phones because they are distractions, others are embracing these devices, especially when they have discovered that students are ignoring the bans. By accepting these tools, teachers are able to lead their students to and through immediate research, allowing students to continue their studies at any time and from anywhere; thus embracing the skills of the 21st century-learner (AASL, 2007). As with any new implementation, issues arise that must be ironed out, such as problem-solving the digital divide. Studies have shown that the majority of school-aged children own some type of hand-held technology in the form of smartphones, tablets and/or PDA’s (personal digital assistant). “At present, 75% of all 12-17 year old students own their cell phones…” (Hill, 2007, p.3). Those students that do not own these technologies are being provided devices from the school. This system allows the school to save money since they no longer need to supply each student with his/her own device. Now that schools are welcoming students’ hand-held technology, their next goal is to provide access to information without making students vulnerable when surfing the web. To block or not to block is a question that school administrators continue to grapple over because they must walk a fine line of accommodating the conservatives and the liberals of the community. Therefore, firewalls are in place even though they can hinder research. In addition, digital citizenship lessons are a must in order to create responsible online citizens that understand how to protect others and themselves when working on the world wide web. Digital devices are essential in the school environment and will continue to play an important role in research. In my library, I intend to utilize students’ personal hand-held devices, which is already in place at my school. QR codes are constantly created for students to access specific information and websites. I will continue this practice and provide students with a QR code for websites that provide information about books and research. As Hill stated, students already have the technology, teachers and librarians simply need to create ways in which students are evaluating and synthesizing the information they encounter (2007, p.2-3). I agree with Hill that students must be taught digital citizenship, which is the reason I would like to create a blog in which students discuss issues they encounter while working with technology. Students will be able to post questions, thoughts, and share problem-solving skills for combating cyberbullying and digital citizenship. This is the 21st century and we must teach our students how to function in this new world. References American Association of School Librarians. (2007). Standards for the 21st-century learner. Retrieved from http://www.ala.org/aasl/standards. Hill, R.A. (2011). Mobile digital devices. Teacher Librarian, 39(1), 22-26.