CI 2312 Digital Native Discussion

I think I would consider myself a digital native, and I think there is truth in the concept. I don’t think that every person who grew up with technology knows how to use it, and I don’t think that every person who didn’t is behind. The concept of a digital native is a good one, but not necessarily a rule. In truth, I believe that people who grow up with technology have a better chance at learning how to use it effectively, but interest and effort continue to play a role. I feel that I understand technology well, I can navigate new resources fairly easily. I have a laptop, a phone, apple watch, and other electronics that make up a big part of my communication (especially these days).

From what I understood, we could be a visitor or a resident on different platforms. I would consider myself a resident on instagram, but other than that I almost never contribute to the internet. I will create an account with a profile picture, but very rarely interact beyond a like. I will occasionally share other people’s original work, but I haven’t posted my own thoughts on other sites in the last few years. This leads me to believe I am closer to a visitor than a resident, but somewhere in between. Compared to my peers I feel that I have a fairly small online presence, but compared many people older than me I assume I am pretty active.

In general, I think it is important to remember that technology can be difficult for anyone to navigate, and that age is one of many factors that contributes to our understanding. I think age is one of the greater factors at play, but so is privilege and access to technology. People will also be exposed to very different technologies and programs, leaving them experts in some areas and beginners in others. I think all of these terms and concepts are helpful for understanding but cannot fully summarize our different levels of understanding.