We've been doing a lot of talking and reading about literacy and learning. The talking has centered around what we define as learning and what we want our students to learn. As part of our reading, we looked at an article titled 21st Century Literacy and Myths. The article outlines 3 myths.
#1: 21st century literacy is about technology only. An easily disputed myth, in fact, I am wondering how it even can be thought of as a logical assumption. Technology is developing at a rapid pace but there are still people who don't rely on technology to do their work or live their lives. Even in today's job market, employers are looking for employees with a good knowledge of reading, writing, and oral communication.
#2: The digital divide is closed. Socio-economic level has such an affect on who is able to purchase and use technology. Variables such as money, importance and priority in one's live, interest and comfort level, all impact access to technology and digital media.
#3: Teachers who use technology in their personal lives will use it in their classes. Now this one I would have thought to be true but then I reflected on my own experience. Personally I have developed my knowledge and use of technology at home and in the classroom. I think I use technology in the classroom more, however, I don't believe I use technology significantly more in my practice than before. I just don’t feel like its a part of my teaching style yet. I have to work hard at incorporating technology in my practice. It does not come second nature to me, as it may to some of my colleagues who grew up with computers.