1.5 Assignment: Critical Reflection Journal/Blog

What is new to my thinking or learning this past week? 

             Just as the industrial revolution changed the world and the way things are manufactured, technology has not only impacted how we communicate with one another, but it has had a profound impact on Education.  I believe that technology has had a positive effect to a certain extent, but I also believe that it has had a negative impact.  Technology has negatively impacted the way we communicate with one another.  We now use terms like ‘Digital Citizenship.’  A whole new vernacular has been developed as to the appropriate way to conduct ourselves online. 

How has this new information challenged me?

             As I reflect on the concept of ‘Digital Citizenship,’ though the term is new to me, how we behave online is how we should behave offline.  With that in mind, I did find the information this week enlightening and learned several new things, including new terminology.  I realized that Digital Citizenship is about more than just do’s and don’ts and being safe online.  Digital Citizenship is a way of life.  It’s challenged me to think about what I post in public forums on social media and otherwise.  Being a responsible Digital Citizen is just as important as being an accountable citizen online. 

How has this stretched my professional growth and development?

             Educators have a great responsibility to be good Digital Citizens ourselves, but we must help our students do the same.  Technology continues to develop and evolve faster than we can keep up with, which means being a good Digital Citizen is more critical now than ever.  As responsible educators and responsible Digital Citizens, it is important to state up to date with the latest technology that our students might be exposed to so that we can have an open and honest conversation in the classroom about being a Digital Citizen.

 What are the implications of this week’s learning on my professional practice?

             Though I am a bit naïve when it comes to sites and apps that today’s generation of students uses regularly. I must become more aware so that not only can I help my students be mindful of potential dangers associated with the sites and apps they use, but I can also help them become better and more responsible Digital Citizens.  Just as technology has continued to evolve over the last several years, so will the world of Digital Citizenship.  As educators, we have the power and responsibility to empower our students to act responsibly, be responsible, and help others do the same.

How can these new learnings be used to impact my personal faith journey and my impact for the Kingdom?

             Jesus commands us in Matthew 28:19-20 to go and make disciples and share the good news to all the world.  Jesus gave this command to His disciples before He ascended into Heaven.  He taught His disciples how to do this during His time on earth.  Similarly, this command holds today.  When we profess our faith and become a Christian, the expectation is that we would do the same.  He has taught how to do this throughout scripture.  As educators, we have been given the high honor of teaching others; this includes the opportunity to lead them to Christ and disciple them.  With this in mind, we must do the same when educating students about the importance of becoming responsible Digital Citizens.