Readings - unit 8

Please read the following readings, which cover the debate around the hypothesized existence of digital natives/digital immigrants. Please pay close attention to the evidence that each side provides for its argument. As always, please read with a critical eye.

Some questions to consider as you read:

  • What does digital native mean? And digital immigrant?
  • What evidence does Prensky advance in favor of this categorization? What evidence does Bennett present that this categorization may not be accurate?
  • Why did Prensky argue that engagement is the most important factor in school?
  • How did Bennett critique Prensky's support for the digital natives thesis?
  • Why did Bennett hypothesize that Prensky's thesis gained so much traction?

 

Download prensky.pdf

Download bennett.pdf