Journal 3

Journal 3: “Students Need a Digital Driver's License Before They Start Their Engines,” NETS-3 and 4

 Swan, G., & Park, M. (2012-2013). Students need a digital driver's license before they start their engines. In Gary Swan (Ed.), Learning and Leading with Technology (pp. 26-28). Retrieved from http://www.learningandleading-digital.com/learning_leading/201212?pg=5

The article, “Students Need a Digital Driver’s License Before they Start Their Engines,” written by Gary Swan and Mary Parks, discusses the latest program which educates youth in utilizing electronics and the internet before allowing them to dive into the electronic world. Many schools are requiring students to use ipads and tablets rather than hard copy text. Integrating and promoting technology in the classroom is a wonderful innovation, however, students should be educated regarding the down sides and potential dangers of the Internet or technology for their safety. A Digital Driver’s License requires students to learn the basics of the internet and how to successfully be involved in the digital culture. Schools that support this Digital Driver’s License (DDL) are promoting and modeling digital citizenship and responsibility, as students are required to obtain a “license” before they can use electronics (NETS-4). Topics such as cyber bullying, citing sources, copyright, online etiquette, and personal safety are taught. This will hopefully help reduce cyber bullying and plagiarism, which is a highly present problem in many school.  Additionally, this program also supports collaboration within educators and school networks as programmers create assessments for the students (NETS-3). Teachers are encouraged to develop other areas of testing or classes which can be taught helping students to become more efficient at using electronic sources.

      1.      Would I support the Digital Driver’s License (DDL) program?

Yes! I fully support and believe in this program. As technology is being introduced to children at an earlier age, they need to learn how to use it appropriately in order to be successful and remain safe. Computers, tablets, and the internet can present challenges and confusion in utilizing. Classes teaching students to function their devices will also promote usage. Online etiquette is also important to have for teaching mannerism and reducing online bullying.    

      2.      What are potential issues that the DDL program can develop?

What happens when students fail to pass their assessment tests after several attempts and do not obtain their DDL? Will they be excluded from classroom activities or not be able to use the tablets? These are potential problems. Schools will need to create a solution perhaps lowering the passing scale for some students or giving them alternate assignments or uses of technology. If a student is unable to earn their DDL, then the classroom is leaving them behind and the school is not following the “No Child Left Behind” act. On the other hand, as far as expenses, fortunately the program is free. The schools would need to fund classes in technology in order to prepare their students in taking the assessments.