Learning+Through+Technology

By: Jenn Lacko & Valerie Laranko

One of the most entertaining scenes of the documentary was when the children from South Korea sang a song titled, "Netiquette." The song taught the children how to properly use the internet in safe and educational way. Growing up we are taught songs as children to learn certain historical events or how to spell, it was interesting to see that in South Korea they were using music to teach internet safety.

Val: When I was in 5th grade my teacher showed the "School House Rock" episode titled "Conjunction Junction." After the film was over she made us state what we learned from the song, and sing it back to her.

Jenn: When I was young I can recall learning numerous facts and historical events in song form. This always helped me remember and learn in a fun way. Sometimes I didn't even realize I was actually learning. An example would be learning a song about the different states, this was helpful to me so that I could easily identify them on my own or for an exam.

After hearing the translation of the song "Netiquette," and seeing the way the children were taught to use the internet a few questions arose: 1. Does the song really help the students to become well-mannered citizens of the cyber world? 2. The documentary stated that classes start focus on the internet at the second grade level. At this age, are children even aware of the subject matter? 3. Is teaching children to use the internet in a specific way restricting them from getting the full internet experience? (i.e. if they don't experience the negative effects of the internet, how will they know what to stay away from?)

Keyword Search: Children, internet, netiquette, cyberbullying

Mishna F. ,Saini M.,Solomon S., (2009).Ongoing and online: Children and youth's perceptions of cyber bullying. //Children and Youth Services Review//. 31 (12), 1222-1228 This article through studying focus groups looked at the effects of cyberbullying on youth. It also looked at the relationships children are forming, and how they're using the internet.

Mallan K.M., Singh P.,Giardina N., (2010).The challenges of participatory research with 'tech-savvy' youth. //Journal of Youth Studies.// 13(2), 255-272 This article discusses the way high school students use media. Looking at this article can help researchers determine how much of an influence technology has had on their education as they've grown.

Manzo, K., (2010). Portable Playlist for Class Lessons. //Technology Counts.// 29(26), 16-17 This article talks about how a class of first graders in California does homework assignments and learns lessons through the use of ipods and class websites.

We would use a Case Study to determine how much internet children are using in the classroom and how effective it is. Ideally we would like to compare students from different parts of the United States as well as students from South Korea. A Case Study would be the best approach to this type of research since children are always willing to openly talk about their experiences. It would be most effective with young children to reeanct their personal experiences rather than answering questionaires. Through interview and observation we will be able to see the children's emotional responses. For example we would ask: What would a typical day in the classroom be? Do you ever get to use computers in school? If so, what do you do on them?

Just in case you were wondering, here are the lyrics to the song "Netiquette": //While chatting, first greet happily Use polite words in a cordial way During the game always be open, honest and do the right thing Be careful on the keyboard I know who did it (be careful) I know I am the internet guardian angel I will be the first to protect I want to be the first to protect Though faces are unknown, it’s a warm neighborhood Precious Internet friend Precious Internet friend (friend!) Netiquette!//