Social Media Literacy

What makes us literate?  The ability to read or to speak well are certainly critical components of literacy.  But in this digital age can we process so much divergent information that knowledge becomes so rare? Maybe literacy is more than a bombardment of data that can be turned into bits of recitation.  Social media literacy, as I surmise it, is not a linear thing; rather, it is a carefully understood ability to master an ever-changing technology, creatively access widespread connections and clearly evaluate messages.

Digital Natives Revealed

Anyone born after 1990 is now described as a Digital Native.  This term, coined by educator Marc Prensky in 2001, describes a generation immersed in interactive technology.  All facets of digital native life is dependent upon the Internet, mobile technologies and social media.  It is an instant existence that reaches education, entertainment and employment while enabling personal communication and philosophical beliefs.

But are Digital Natives as predominant as professed by Prensky and others?  Are Digital Natives found globally?  What factors, beyond when one was born, influence true digital native status?  For instance, Google an article called Young People Are Not as Digitally Native as You Think.  This New York Times article might surprise you.

Social Media and its Global Importance

As an introduction to the global impact of social media, it is critical to comprehend why social media hold such a relevant position in our lives.  Perhaps the following article on Instagram and social media envy is a good place to start. 

The News Site Era

I am working on an article about the changing journalism, digital media and consumer interaction structure.  Essentially, the article examines the role of news reporting and readership in a post-print world.  This news site era calls for new delivery and creation technologies, the mastery of professionals and citizen reporters, and a public that is attuned to multi-faceted and multimedia consumption techniques.

As I teach my Multimedia Reporting class at Ashland University, the thought arises that these fresh-faced kids will soon be the cornerstone of journalism.  They will have opportunites so great and face complex stories so challenging that would make previous professionals pause.  It is, clearly, more than the tools of technology; rather, the 24-7 endless clock of news demands an insatiable need for more.  More stories, more depth, more immediacy.

The news site era is upon us.  Let us proceed with caution and passion.

Ed Tech Today

I recently had the honor to be interviewed on the ED TECH TODAY podcast.  The podcast was created by my good friend Jim Hurguy.  Jim is a very talented graphic designer and he is branching out into the world of social media.  This podcast is his latest venture in a series aimed at examining the critical role played by new techologies upon learning.

 

 

 

 

Jim and I talked about the changing dynamic of teaching college students with 21st century tools while maintaining discipline fundamentals. I discussed the practical applications of integrating new media into projects and assignments.

I enjoyed our chat and will soon post the finished copy so you can listen and respond with your comments.  A little discourse goes a long way.

Dave Brubeck and the Rise of Cool

Dave Brubeck passed away today.  The jazz genius, who gave us "Take Five" and other notable classics, will be remembered as the performer who was popular despite the onslaught of rock and roll and the British Invasion.  If Elvis was the King of Rock and Roll, then Brubeck, to me, was the King of Cool.

Dave Brubeck - Take Five

Dave Brubeck  RIP "King of Cool"