Mary Hess recently linked to a report by the MacArthur Foundation titled “Kids’ Informal Learning with Digital Media: An Ethnographic Investigation of Innovative Knowledge Cultures”.
The report makes a number of observations including:
- Youth use online media to extend friendships and interests
- A smaller number of youth use the online world to explore interests and find information that goes beyond what they have access to at school or in their local community.
- Youth engage in peer-based, self directed learning online.
One of the implications of the research they suggest is that:
To stay relevant in the 21st century, education institutions need to keep pace with the rapid changes introduced by digital media. Youths’ participation in this networked world suggests new ways of thinking about the role of education. What, the authors ask, would it mean to really exploit the potential of the learning opportunities available through online resources and networks? What would it mean to reach beyond traditional education and civic institutions and enlist the help of others in young people’s learning? Rather than assuming that education is primarily about preparing for jobs and careers, they question what it would mean to think of it as a process guiding youths’ participation in public life more generally.
I like some of these questions that are being asked and wonder what similar questions there could be for youth service providers, churches, youth ministers, chaplains…
I’m only just beginning to read the entire report but I do wonder what is meant by “peer” and “friendship” by the writers of the report, and by the young people that were involved, as it seems to me that online peer networks and friendships aren’t always the kind of friendship that is long term, supportive, in person, instead are in many occasions “just” reflect a click of a link on their social networking option of their choice.
The report reads really well, is researched well and has a number of observations that people will find useful and insightful…
Link: Report - “Kids’ Informal Learning with Digital Media: An Ethnographic Investigation of Innovative Knowledge Cultures”
