week four blog!

Prensky’s concept of the digital native/digital immigrant divide describes how students born into the digital age (digital natives) differ from those who had to adapt to technology later in life (digital immigrants). Digital natives are accustomed to fast access to information, multimedia content, and interactive learning, which shapes how they think and learn. In contrast, digital immigrants often prefer traditional methods like lectures and printed materials. This difference has created a disconnect in education, as many teachers use outdated teaching styles that don’t engage today’s tech-savvy students. As a result, students may struggle with motivation and attention in traditional classrooms. Prensky argues that to effectively teach digital natives, educators must adapt their methods to include more technology-driven, interactive approaches. 

I find myself to be a blend of digital native and immigrant. I grew up with the technology boom but I went to school on Hawaii where there were limited resources and technology. In addition I was raised by my grandparents and always valued a childhood without technology. As I grew older into my teenage years, I never had the newest Iphone, was never crazy about video games and would rather play outside and get my feet dirty. For that I am grateful. Although now as a 30-something year old I would say that I am not as tech-savvy or digitally literate as some of my peers may be. I still find joy in reading hardcover books and magazines over an online article or e-book. I have a noticeable technology trigger when technology frustrates me. I embody qualities of a digital native and a digital immigrant.    

Kirschner critically challenged Prensky’s 2001 concept of “digital natives,” arguing that many of its claims lack empirical support. While Prensky suggested that young people are inherently skilled with technology and learn better through digital methods, Kirschner pointed out that comfort with tech does not equal effective learning use. He debunked the myth that digital natives can multitask efficiently, citing research showing that multitasking actually hinders learning and cognitive performance. Kirschner also questioned the belief that students learn better simply because they prefer digital environments, emphasizing that preference doesn’t guarantee better outcomes. He further criticized the idea that all young learners have the same digital skills and needs, warning against one-size-fits-all teaching approaches. Overall, Kirschner urged educators to base their methods on evidence, not generational stereotypes.

Prensky, M. (2012). From digital natives to digital wisdom : hopeful essays for 21st century learning. Corwin.

The following two YouTube videos provide an overview about digital natives and digital immigrants.