The 'Net' Generation
For most “Net Geners,” personal technology is a ubiquitous, integral part of their lives; they are the “first global generation…living online and reaching out to the world” (Mihailidis, 2014 cited in Rogers, 2016, p. 32). In fact, most current students now are “native” to digital technologies and are well versed in navigating various apps and social media platforms. Indeed, Prensky (2010) and Tapscott, (2008) maintain that “not only are such students more proficient in using such technologies…they also think differently” (cited in Bates, 2014, para.13).
Ackermann (2011) provides a typology of new ways in which young people interact with each other and the world. Through evaluating the way in which youth approach learning, creativity and play, she developed a framework that outlines six dimensions that provide a better understanding of today’s learner:
Ackermann (2011) provides a typology of new ways in which young people interact with each other and the world. Through evaluating the way in which youth approach learning, creativity and play, she developed a framework that outlines six dimensions that provide a better understanding of today’s learner:
- Sharism – new ways of relating
- Shifting identities – new ways of being
- Border-crossing- new ways of moving between worlds
- Literacies beyond print – new ways of saying it across time-space
- A culture of gaming or ‘simulating’ – new ways of playing it safe
- A culture of bricoleurs (maker, hackers, hobbyist) – new rapports to things (p.691)
