Journal 3: Keeping the Peace (NETS IV & V)

Levinson, M. (2010). Keeping the peace. Learning and Leading with Technology, 37(5), Retrieved from http://www.iste.org/AM/Template.cfmSection=February_No_5_4&Template=/MembersOnly.cfm&NavMenuID=4495&ContentID=25237&DirectListComboId


The article was about the use of instant messaging in a middle school. The program caused problems between students, parents, and teachers. It discussed the appropriate use of technology at school and home. The school ended up looking at the pros and cons and stopped it. The problem was IM’s were sent in class and video tapings showing someone’s mom in p.j’s caused uproar. Parents were alarmed and didn’t know how to engage kids in conversations around appropriate use of technology at home. One group of parents thought it was fine and they needed to explore, the other side felt as if they were over stepped. The school gave permission to use these programs at home without parent permission. The iChat was blocked and students petitioned and protested. In the end it was banned and they now have steps to prepare everyone in advance for the introduction of new technologies. Adults and kids view technology different and schools need to figure out to manage this cultural divide.

How would you feel if it was your kids?
I would allow her to use the programs as long as she used them correctly as soon as she used them inappropriate I would not let her use it anymore.

Do you feel schools are jumping to fast into technology?
I don’t, I think we are actually slow and need to catch up. There are so many great programs and new things to learn in technology and the older generation needs to acknowledge that. We are only holding kids behind.