Literacy, To Type or Not To Type?

In this modern age, literacy has taken on a whole new meaning, it is no longer about just being able to read and write, now teachers and students face the concept of digital literacy.
Digital literacy is a very broad term that encompasses many different topics, digital etiquette, rights and responsibilities and so much more. This means that whenever we, as teachers are using technology in the classroom, we have to look at what are we actually teaching students about technology. Are we saying, "just use a Google Image because it is quick and easy" or are we taking into account digital copyright laws and making out students aware of these laws. Digital literacy means teachers will have to have conversations with their students about technology and all aspects of technology. To many times, it is assumed that students know the proper way to use technology, so those discussions don't need to happen. This is not the case though, digital literacy is a big deal, since technology, like anything needs to be explained to students. It is much to easy to forget that the digital world is just like the physical world, comments made can hurt people, theft of music or photos is still theft and the rights and freedoms we have in the physical world, still exist in the digital world. These are big ideas, things that can not be assumed, so teachers have to find a way to bring it up in class. This means using teachable moments, like when a student mentions cyber-bullying, or downloading teachers need to talk about it. When you are going to use technology, take the time to talk with students about, learn what they think about it, and how they feel they should use it. Take time to discuss some of the bigger issues that have arisen related to technology, like cyber-bullying, identity theft, inappropriate websites and the potential dangers of chatting and meeting someone off the internet. When you are discussing issues like free speech or the law in class, bring up technology as well, as too often this is pushed aside for more important issues.
Finally, I guess I should tell you about my website, I finished it and it is now published to the web. If you want to check it out, go right ahead, the URL is msmandziuk.weebly.com, though I should warn you it is a little rough still. I was super nervous about making the site, but now I realize that it is kind of fun. I figured out how to add is some extras to it, like video, so that was great. Overall, I would say that creating a website is not that difficult, it just takes some time and effort, so if you have considered creating one, go for it, since you never know until you try.