This Ted talk was very informative to me. The experimental project that was conducted several times in different locations all prove the same thing, which is that digital natives are not an actual thing. The digital native term is canceled out and does not apply to these children in these different communities. The communities were exposed to a computer in a box (hole in the wall) and given no instructions on how to use it or what it was. Since children are naturally curious it became their objective to learn how to use the screen in the box. After nine months, the kids were able to use the computer and also teach others how to use the computer. Many of them learned from just standing and watching the other kids use the computer. This comes to show that anyone can learn just as long as they have time to learn. These children are prime examples of self-teaching each other through technology. It is also important to mention that the computers were just in English, and were placed in areas where English is not spoken or even read. This could’ve been a huge barrier for these children but through time they were able to understand and access everything on the computer properly.
This Ted talk made me think about the different ways that I make an impact on students' lives in an online environment. I have worked as a TA for the last three years and I understand that children are fully capable of doing things on their own. I also understand that children know how to access social media very well, but I do tend to struggle when it comes to actually learning through digital tools. My role as a TA has always been to assist students wherever they need help. I have also learned to give the students space and let them go through their trial-and-error experiences. I allow them to try doing things on their own a couple of times before they ask for help. This itself is a huge thing to help them scaffold. This Ted talk helped me better understand that children only need a supportive person to be around them in case there are questions.
Roanny, I agree with the point you make about how the experiment shows that anyone can learn if they have the time to do it. I think that in addition to the time, they also need to have a desire to learn. I also related to what you said regarding how children really just need a supportive person around for when they have questions. Thank you for sharing!
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