I just finished reading about Digital Natives, Digital Immigrants, and the Net Gen. Very interesting articles! Since I would be considered a digital immigrant, it was interesting to get a feel for how the Net Gen, or digital natives, think.

I personally have learned how to use most of the technology that the Net Gen takes for granted, although I am not as fast with IMing or texting as teenagers are. I do especially love my new iPhone and take for granted having the internet at my fingers at (almost) all times. I also hav come to expect immediate results when I email someone or order something on-line. However, unlike me, true digital natives have thought processes that differ from my own. I am still very logical, taking one-step at a time, even though I can multitask with the best of them. It will be interesting to watch my own children study, knowing that their generation doesn't really multitask, it networks, links, and is continuously "on". The loud music or tv that would distract me when I used to do my homework may not bother my kids. That's just strange to me!

It will be a challenge to create lessons as a high school teacher that will reach my "tuned-in" students. The way I was taught is obstolete these days, and luckily I embrace new technology and love to learn and use it. I am hoping that I will have an interactive whiteboard to use in my classroom so that I can have more chances for student engagement...

I think that the Net Gen is just another step in the progression of our development (as a civilization). The technology that is available these days has really opened up the minds of many young people - much more than a set of old fashioned encylopedias could! It's an exciting time to become a new teacher, and I am looking forward to the many challenges that await me with the Net Gen.