Do We Need To Opt Out On Being Present To One Another? What is the urge to not show up to be with one another anymore? Vegging out with the "technology generation" may cause more deafness than what we as a society can manage. I am a tech buff and love playing with all the latest toys created by high tech businesses. I simply get concerned about people being mesmerized by computers and things and not showing up for their daily interaction with another human being.
I am concerned, because I have seen how this mesmerization works. I worked in an after school program where little kindergarten children, did not want to hear a story being read to them but rather chose to play computer games. As a long time storyteller, I was appalled at this discovery. No matter how sensational the story was, the children were disinterested. Once again, I realize what a great teaching tool technology is for all of us, and I know we need to keep, "6 degrees of separation," between us and not allow our technology use to widen that gap by pushing us further apart.
Sometimes, I think, that children and youth, in general, need to be educated on the proper use of technology through a mandatory course in media literacy. Yes, I do...because, as a television and radio educated person, I have seen how destructive media is if you do not know how to use it properly. Meaning, when to stop using it and how to circumvent defiant behavior settling into your use. Adults seem to have difficulties with the boundaries of using media, how can they help our youth learn?
Tune in tomorrow for more information on Media literacy in Action. Thanks to those of you who are following and commenting.
Ciao,
The Radiogirl
When I was young our moms would send us outside to play. T.V. was restricted to certain times, we learned how to play with the neighborhood kids. T.V. was not even on after a certain time at night. When my children were young and the power went out it was fun, we were suddenly playing games together and interacting as if camping for a few days. I think family game nights and family discussions away from technology will help us stay connected in the Techno world we live in, enjoy each other and have fun!
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