Blog Post #2

    The word processing software known as microsoft word provides users with the comprehensive tools designed to create, edit, format, and exchange documents. As a student, I have utilized microsoft word throughout my entire educational journey to complete various assignments such as essays, presentations, and creative projects. During my early years of schooling, I learned how to use microsoft word in computer class where I would complete tasks focused on displaying the program's basic functions. For example, I was responsible for designing a travel brochure on a country of my choice, detailing why someone should travel there. Once I reached middle and high school, my usage of the word processor was restricted to compiling and configuring essays in the proper format of MLA. At Florida State University, I have continued to employ microsoft word to write research papers and presentations. Despite the alluring components of other word processing softwares, microsoft word is user-friendly and embedded with automatic spelling as well as grammar checks. Likewise, the advanced features of word allow me to add graphics, generate a table of contents, and easily insert tables/graphs which circumvents the hassle of performing annoying tasks. Lastly, microsoft word possesses a collaboration tool that permit multiple users to write and revise a document while  simultaneously saving the most recent update.

    The ISTE organization functions to help educators around the world utilize technology to solve difficult problems. As an organization, ISTE curates a set of standards that provide educators with the strategies to stimulate empowered learners and challenge traditional approaches of learning. In my opinion, the sixth standard defined as the facilitator is the most meaningful because educators are defining and fostering a culture as well as environment where students take ownership of their learning goals. This standard is important because the norms and practices students learn through observing their teachers, mold the children's perception and academic outcomes. As a facilitator, educators shape the academic setting by keeping students on task and comfortable with using different types of learning such as face-to-face or digital. Furthermore, this standard demands educators to generate learning opportunities that challenge students to employ problem-solving and logic to analyze as well as resolve difficulty. Finally, facilitators embrace creativity and its expression to communicate ideas, feelings, and knowledge. 

    In the 21st century, individuals began thinking and processing information fundamentally different from their predecessors. This was the result of a technology revolution that brought forth computers, tablets, and the internet as well as a dependence on such innovations. The term digital native describes young people who have grown up in a digital age with close contact to computers, video games, the internet, smart phones, and social media. Thus, to be a digital native means that one is a native and proficient speaker of the digital language. Over the course of my college experience, I have noticed minimal differences between how my teachers and I use technology. The only distinction of note would be the differences in speed while operating technology as some teachers do so at a slower pace than myself. But for the most part my professors have exhibited a clear and sometimes superior knowledge of certain technologies functions. In terms of technology usage, I anticipate that my future students and I will demonstrate some variations. Likely, these differences will arise in frequency and type of technology. However, educators cannot assume that all individuals from younger generations have innate understandings of technology. Thus, step-by-step training is required as students are not all equally exposed to technology. In my opinion, the generalization of today's youth as being digital natives is not true despite all being born in a "digital age." Research shows evidence that today's youth are not as capable of dealing with modern technologies as people think.

    A badge is defined as a distinctive emblem worn to mark achievement, existing in both physical and digital forms. In particular, digital badges are validated visual representations of accomplishment earned in learning environments. Despite being thought of as a reward, digital badges help to set goals and incentivize participation in academic settings. When educators award students with a badge, lifelong learning is promoted that recognizes personal initiative and active involvement. As a result, badges require students to complete a set of requirements that demonstrate specific skills and knowledge. Unfortunately, I have not earned a badge before but I look forward to hopefully earning some in the future.