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Overall the blog post written by Lauren Croning – “Do digital natives exist?” is a good read and engaging but could use some additional work. The blog post is very informative and addresses the question, although the opening paragraph has some repetition which causes a little confusion early on for the readers. Also adding some photos to the blog post to make it more eye-catching and visually pleasing to the readers. This blog post overall showed a good understanding of the questions but to further engage with your reader you could use some examples to connect your points.

Do digital natives exist?

A digital native can be simply defined as someone who is unfamiliar with periods of time without digital technology, such as computers and the Internet.  Revision of articles written by individuals, such as American writer and public speaker, Marc Prensky, establishes this understanding of the theory of who and what digital natives are, as well as ‘digital immigrants’ who adapted the age of digital technology later in their lives (Prensky, 2001).

Whilst there are individuals who do not believe in the idea of digital natives, I personally believe that the concept of ‘digital natives’ has a lot of evidence constructed by theorists like Prensky, who attempt to understand the changes that may need to be undertaken to be able to adapt education to the needs of newer generations (Gu, Zhu & Guo, 2011).

But what evidence has persuaded me enough to encourage me to agree with these scholars?  The idea that there are individuals who find it difficult to relate and understand those who are technology savvy lead me to believe that this concept of digital natives is in fact true, and it can often seem as though these individuals have a different sense of communication and language to older generations.  The way in which digital natives learn and receive information, as well as their preferences of digital media, is proven different to digital immigrants (Vercic & Vercic, 2013).  However, although all digital natives are classified under the same term, those from different time periods are in fact quite different to each other.  For instance, a digital native from 2001, when compared to a 2016 digital native, have both had different experiences with digital technology and therefore are more adapted to the form of media more prevalent within their own age. Finally, modifications made in schools, such as introduction of tablets in learning, demonstrates the differences in development between different digital natives, in which individuals have been allowed to flourish in a more modern sense.

Reference List:

Vercic, A T., & Vercic D. (2013). Digital natives and social media. Retrieved from http://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0363811113001215?via%3Dihub

Gu, X., Zhu, Y., & Guo, X. (2013). Meeting the “Digital Natives”: Understanding the Accepting of Technology in Classrooms. Retrieved from http://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0363811113001215?via%3Dihub

Prenksy, M. (2001). Digital Natives, Digital Immigrants. Retrieved from http://www.marcprensky.com/writing/Prensky%20-%20Digital%20Natives,%20Digital%20Immigrants%20-%20Part1.pdf

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Truong-Xinh blog post on “Do digital natives exist? Is there a difference between the 2001 digital native and the 2017 digital native?” shows a clear understanding and a personal understanding of the topic. The photos and video attached makes the blog post eye-catching and further engage the reader, although Truong-Xinh has not to reference any of the media that she has included. Overall the flow is good but you have excessed the word count. Truong-Xinh has clearly answered the first part of the question but needs to focus on the difference between a 2001 and 2017 digital native.

Do digital natives exist? Is there a difference between the 2001 digital native and the 2017 digital native?

A digital native is a person who is “innately” familiar with technology, especially computers and the internet, due to being born and exposed to technology during a particular digital age (Bennett. S, 2008). Similarly, a digital immigrant is someone who has to acquire a familiarization with technology at an older age due to not being exposed to technology at and earlier age (Prensky. M, 2001).

Technically I am considered a digital native and I can relate to it. I can also see a distinctive difference between how my parents have adapted and acquired their technological skills, deeming them a digital immigrant. Therefore, from a personal perspective I do believe that digital natives exist, however this does not sufficiently validate my argument.

When doing further research into this discussion I came across, Marc Prensky a scholar who popularized the terms “digital native” and “digital immigrant” in his 2001 article discussing the need to reform the education system, to accommodate students of the modern world. In his article he discusses how technology has changed the way people receive, process and interpret information.

Neurobiology proves that the stimulation of particular areas of the brain changes its structure and intellectual thoughts, which is constantly being altered (Prensky. M, 2001). Social psychology research indicates that social experiences and environment contributes to individuals thought processes (Prensky. M, 2001).

If we go back in time and compare the different ages of technology it becomes more obvious how technology has changed society. For example, the renascence (1400’s to late 1600’s) displayed a shift in art and literature, improving culture and society age (Bennett. S, 2008).  

We are currently in the age known as the information age, where the internet and technology has allowed us to easily share and access information, which has become a necessary part of daily life (Palfrey, J. , 2011). Rapid advancements in technology means that society is required to changing along with it.  This has formed sub ages in the information age.  New media tends to appeal to younger generations leading to youth following new trends. Therefore, the supporting evidence does indicate a difference difference between 2001 and 2017 digital ages.  

APA referencing and link:

Bennett, S., Maton, K., & Kervin, L. (2008). The ‘digital natives’ debate: A critical review of the evidence. Source:http://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/j.1467-8535.2007.00793.x/full

Palfrey, J. G., & Gasser, U. (2011). Born digital: Understanding the first generation of digital natives. Source: https://books.google.com.au/books?hl=en&lr=&id=wWTI-DbeA7gC&oi=fnd&pg=PR2&ots=wHiB5Os-Vx&sig=pG1fVvy3bKPY6jTTkyyEEPyUny0#v=onepage&q&f=false

Prensky, M. (2001). Digital natives, digital immigrants part 1&2. Source:http://www.emeraldinsight.com/doi/pdfplus/10.1108/10748120110424816

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Rewrite - An Understanding of How Changes In Technology Impact On The Way Humans Communicate, And The Ethical Issues That Surround These Changes

In 2017 we now have the world at our fingertips, were able to get the answer to all our questions within seconds. We can talk to our friends and family from across the world but as convenient as this sounds there are negative issues that have impacted human communication along the evolution of technology.

While researching I came across the term ‘phubbing’ which is snubbing somebody off for your mobile phone (Urban Dictionary, 2012). Aside from being rude, it’s apparently having major issues in relationships. In a recent study, 22.6% of participates admitted to ‘phubbing’ causing issues in their relationships. (L. Chang, 2015) Now I’ll be honest I’m guilty of this but it makes you question is my phone addiction worth these problems in my relationship and the answer should be no.

With all the social media that is around that connects us it’s hard to think it can make us feel isolated? Well according to Sue Miller from Relationships Australia “42% of Australians who used an average of four methods of technology to communicate [email, SMS, Facebook, Twitter] were lonely compared with 11% of people who used only one," (B. Morgan, 2011) this static is shocking considering that most of us use many social media platforms to communicate. But it does pose the question if we are trying to combat our loneliness with social media or it is the cause?

Gone are the days of writing letters as we can now email each other. While this benefits our environment and in most cases a speedy reply. We are now noticing the effects on our students. Research has proven that handwriting has benefits on our children including cognitive benefits and muscle strength (B, McDougall, 2017). As Mrs. Davies stated ‘‘it can have negative effects on young children’s development if over-used with research showing, in addition to poor handwriting, reduced concentration, lack of interpersonal skills and disturbed sleep.” (B. Nicol, 2017)

With all this in mind, it makes you wonder have all these advances in technology come at a price.

APA referencing and link:

Chang, Lulu. 2015. What is phubbing and is it ruining your relationship. Retrieved from https://www.digitaltrends.com/mobile/what-is-phubbing-and-is-it-ruining-your-relationships/

McDougall, Bruce. 2017. Digital age students fall behind in handwriting skills. Retrieved from http://www.heraldsun.com.au/news/digitalage-students-fall-behind-in-handwriting-skills/news-story/04c5648c2eaf5572b493300b3fbacd90

Morgan, Brawen. 2011. Is technology making us lonely? Retrieved from  http://www.abc.net.au/health/thepulse/stories/2011/11/03/3353184.htm

Nicol, Bob. 2017. Handwriting skills decline. Retrieved from http://regional.sheppnews.com.au/2016/08/02/43483/handwriting-skills-decline

Urban Dictionary, 2012. Phubbing. Retrieved from http://www.urbandictionary.com/define.php?term=Phubbing&utm_source=search-action

Image retrieved from http://www.lifebuzz.com/technology-culture

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An Understanding of How Changes In Technology Impact On The Way Humans Communicate, And The Ethical Issues That Surround These Changes

In 2017 it is common for most people to come into contact with a digital device in their everyday life. People of the 21st century now rely on devices such as laptops, mobiles, and televisions day to day and have because autonomous to it.  Always wanting the most up to date and fastest model of these devices it makes you really think of what are the ethical issues that surround these changes.

There are many concerns around these technologies whether it be social issues where people are so attached to their phones that without this device it may cause anxiety and even have sleeping issues due to being addicted to scrolling through their phone or the constant dependence on our mobile phones to solve all our problems rather than thinking for ourselves. (B.Wuensch, 2015)

Another issue surrounding the changes of technology is online bullying. People especially youths are now anonymous online and can create fake personas to torment others online. It is easier for others to bully somebody online as it is only a click of the button, there is no confrontation which makes the culprit feel like there is no wrong done. Bullying is not ethical and the victim often feels helpless and like there is no escape. With the changes in technology, it makes this faceless crime easier. (R.Vitelli, 2016)

There have been many positive impacts within technology but with the constant development, we have become so involved with the technologies that we have started to isolate ourselves, rather than living in the present moment we are sitting on our phones. These digital devices which were created to bring us together are now isolating us. (B.Wuensch, 2015)

APA referencing and link:

Wuensch, Brianna (2015) 10 ways technology has negatively affected society. Retrieved https://www.theodysseyonline.com/10-ways-technology-negatively-affected-society

Vitelli, Romeo (2015) Does technology make bullying easier? Retrieved https://www.psychologytoday.com/blog/media-spotlight/201604/does-technology-make-bullying-easier

Image retrieved from http://sites.jmu.edu/gumniorfall131/how-much-technology-is-too-much/

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An Understanding of How Changes In Technology Impact On The Way Humans Communicate, And The Ethical Issues That Surround These Changes

In 2017 it is common for most people to come into contact with a digital device in their everyday life. People of the 21st century now rely on devices such as laptops, mobiles, and televisions day to day and have because autonomous to it.  Always wanting the most up to date and fastest model of these devices it makes you really think of what are the ethical issues that surround these changes.

There are many concerns around these technologies whether it be social issues where people are so attached to their phones that without this device it may cause anxiety and even have sleeping issues due to being addicted to scrolling through their phone or the constant dependence on our mobile phones to solve all our problems rather than thinking for ourselves. (B.Wuensch, 2015)

Another issue surrounding the changes of technology is online bullying. People especially youths are now anonymous online and can create fake personas to torment others online. It is easier for others to bully somebody online as it is only a click of the button, there is no confrontation which makes the culprit feel like there is no wrong done. Bullying is not ethical and the victim often feels helpless and like there is no escape. With the changes in technology, it makes this faceless crime easier. (R.Vitelli, 2016)

There have been many positive impacts within technology but with the constant development, we have become so involved with the technologies that we have started to isolate ourselves, rather than living in the present moment we are sitting on our phones. These digital devices which were created to bring us together are now isolating us. (B.Wuensch, 2015)

APA referencing and link:

Wuensch, Brianna (2015) 10 ways technology has negatively affected society. Retrieved https://www.theodysseyonline.com/10-ways-technology-negatively-affected-society

Vitelli, Romeo (2015) Does technology make bullying easier? Retrieved https://www.psychologytoday.com/blog/media-spotlight/201604/does-technology-make-bullying-easier

Image retrieved from http://sites.jmu.edu/gumniorfall131/how-much-technology-is-too-much/

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Is There More To Online Games Than Fun?

To a digital immigrate the answer to “Is there more to online games than fun?” would be no, it’s unhealthy and corrupts our children’s minds. But to answer this question we need to go into depth of what makes them fun and attractions us to them. Other than the obvious of Online games being entertaining they also simulate our minds, give us gratification and fulfill our social needs through interaction which I will discuss below.

Many online and non-online based games stimulate the mind of the player, we are drawn to games that are hard and even stressful because of the gratification it gives us through scores, levels, or trophies etc.  (R.Kulman, 2014) Even when player is not getting their rewards games are still giving the player feedback, and rewarding the choices which are made within the game to ensure the player is improving. (Teachthough Staff, 2012) “Many of their favorite games require learning from their mistakes, remaining highly focused, overcoming frustration, and teaming up with or getting advice from their friends” (R.Kulman, 2014)

Online games can also help us with our social needs – whether it be with a player from around the world or NPC. “The way that games are written, this need can generally be met when players are talking to an in-game character” (Teachthough Staff, 2012). We are able to fulfill our social needs and have a sense of belonging because of this sense of a relationship where needs are met.

Online gaming is popular today because provides players with a space with freedom to explore and be creative. The player can feel comfortable and have the autonomy they need. “the desire to feel independent or have a certain amount of control over our actions” (Reeves, 2017)

So, the answer to the question “Is there more to online games than fun?” is yes, because online gaming is a new world for players where freedom, needs and learning can be achieved.

 APA referencing and link:

Dr. Kulman, Randy. Why do kids love video games? (2014) Retrieved from http://www.teachthought.com/learning/why-people-play-video-games/

Reeves, B. (2017). Why People Play Video Games. Retrieved from http://www.teachthought.com/learning/why-people-play-video-games/

TeachThought Staff (2012) Why people play video games. Retrieved from http://learningworksforkids.com/2014/09/why-do-kids-love-to-play-video-games/’

Image Retrieved from http://www.pressthebuttons.com/2016/05/lets-enjoy-animated-video-gaming-gifs-from-the-simpsons.html

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An Understanding of How Changes In Technology Impact On The Way Humans Communicate, And The Ethical Issues That Surround These Changes

In 2017 it is common for most people to come into contact with a digital device in their everyday life. People of the 21st century now rely on devices such as laptops, mobiles, and televisions day to day and have because autonomous to it.  Always wanting the most up to date and fastest model of these devices it makes you really think of what are the ethical issues that surround these changes.

There are many concerns around these technologies whether it be social issues where people are so attached to their phones that without this device it may cause anxiety and even have sleeping issues due to being addicted to scrolling through their phone or the constant dependence on our mobile phones to solve all our problems rather than thinking for ourselves. (B.Wuensch, 2015)

Another issue surrounding the changes of technology is online bullying. People especially youths are now anonymous online and can create fake personas to torment others online. It is easier for others to bully somebody online as it is only a click of the button, there is no confrontation which makes the culprit feel like there is no wrong done. Bullying is not ethical and the victim often feels helpless and like there is no escape. With the changes in technology, it makes this faceless crime easier. (R.Vitelli, 2016)

There have been many positive impacts within technology but with the constant development, we have become so involved with the technologies that we have started to isolate ourselves, rather than living in the present moment we are sitting on our phones. These digital devices which were created to bring us together are now isolating us. (B.Wuensch, 2015)

APA referencing and link:

Wuensch, Brianna (2015) 10 ways technology has negatively affected society. Retrieved https://www.theodysseyonline.com/10-ways-technology-negatively-affected-society

Vitelli, Romeo (2015) Does technology make bullying easier? Retrieved https://www.psychologytoday.com/blog/media-spotlight/201604/does-technology-make-bullying-easier

Image retrieved from http://sites.jmu.edu/gumniorfall131/how-much-technology-is-too-much/

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Is There a Difference Between a 2001 Digital Native And a 2016 Digital Native?

When I first heard the concept of a digital native I was slightly confused and didn’t know if I was one but upon further investigation as Prensky, (2001) states I realized that I am in fact, a “Digital Native”. a ‘Digital Native’ is a person who is born or brought up during the age of digital technology, which makes them familiar with computers and the Internet from an early on in their life. (Oxford dictionary, 2017)

Then came the question if I am a digital native, is there a difference between a 2001 digital native and a 2016 digital native? If we look back to 2001 Technology was very different, we didn’t have Snapchat, Instagram, or infinite apps on our mobile phones (Nokia mobiles with the game snake on it were the coolest thing back then). The technology wasn’t as complex and constantly updating with new software’s or models, which made it easy for technology to not be as engaging as it is now.

While in 2016 technology is vastly different, it has almost become a language to people of the 21st century. Children these days grow up surrounded by technology which has had an impact on the learning process of today’s children (M.Prensky, 2001).

Digital native’s constant exposure to technology is beneficial as their brains are wired differently to the digital natives of 2001, who’s learning was more sensory based and focused on nature and the activities (C.Rowan, 2013). This is because people couldn’t connect or relate to technology and the internet in 2001 as they were more information based.

2016 digital natives can adapt quicker to new technologies and do not require the need to learn new skills to keep up with the latest trends, while somebody who did not grow up surrounded by new and advanced technologies such as a digital native of 2001, will need to update themselves with the necessary skills to keep up with the trends to understand and be aware of the technologies the current society is connected to.

APA referencing and link:

Prensky, M. (2001). Digital Natives, Digital Immigrants Part 1. On The Horizon, 9(5), 1–6. Retrieved from http://www.emeraldinsight.com/doi/pdfplus/10.1108/10748120110424816

Rowan, Cris (2013) The Impact of Technology on the Developing Child. Retrieved from http://www.huffingtonpost.com/cris-rowan/technology-children-negative-impact_b_3343245.html

Oxford Dictionaries (2017) definition – digital native, Retrieved from https://en.oxforddictionaries.com/definition/digital_native

Image retrieved from https://s-media-cache-ak0.pinimg.com/originals/19/0d/1a/190d1afdb97bc1abf2e3e0ae288729a1.jpg

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Introduction and Purpose

The purpose of this blog is to reflect with you the impact of technology and the ethical issues. There will be 2 key driving questions and a topic that will cover a range of issues such as Digital Natives, benefits of technology and importance of images. I have listed below these topics

- Is there a difference between a 2001 digital native and a 2016 digital native?

- Why is it important to understand the importance and symbolism of images? 

- An understanding of how changes in technology impact on the way humans communicate, and the ethical issues that surround these changes

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ACU Academic Honesty Statement

This website will not be stolen from any source without acknowledgment. The following ACU document states that every resource is appropriately recognized as I do not want to get fined, suspended or expelled for copyright issues. Thank you for reading this strict post. 

APA referencing and link:  Australian Catholic University (2017).  ACU Cover sheet. Retrieved from  http://handbook.acu.edu.au/handbooks/handbook_2016/faculty_of_health_sciences/approved_course_campus_offerings/postgraduate_courses?a=154914