This is part of an ongoing series of discussions I am having with my good friend, Anna Smith, about digital literacies. (You can follow the entire thread of our back and forth talks here.) The other day, Anna asked the question of “where isn’t digital” as she considered a quote by David Wees about the importance of digital literacies in a technology/media-rich world.
Here is an infographic that she created to make her point:
I could have gone in any number of directions here in response to her post, but I found myself thinking quite literally about the areas in my life when things are not digital, and how wonderful that is. It reminded me that technology can’t replace everything, and some experiences still require tangible connections (family) or intangible moments (dreaming).
Here is my infographic response:
And, as per usual, I did some reflection via a webcomic about my thinking:
Peace (in the learning and sharing),
Kevin
As much as the digital can enrich our lives, there are many benefits to unplugging once in a while. Both are important – and I think sometimes we need to remind students that they should experience life unplugged once in a while – if for no other reason than to realize there are other sounds besides what comes from their headphones on the ride home, the benefits of having face to face conversation, how to look things up in books – it’s a little different than using Google. There are so many powerful digital resources available that we should share and use with our students and I’m happy to have them. We are blessed to have the digital world we live in – I’m grateful I can read about your conversation with Anna this morning and see what you’ve both created as well as respond! Thank you!!!
Digital sometimes just doesn’t work, for whatever reason, power, low battery, or internet is down. Then we have to realize, it was not always like this. So then we pick up a book, write on real paper, or talk with a friend. It’s nice to have digital, but it’s important to remember the real stuff, too.