I thoroughly enjoyed reading the article by Alexander (2014) since it allowed for us readers to get a glimpse of what the future could look like in terms of technology. What struck an interest in me was when he mentioned the desire of residential institution leaders’ to blend their heritage with online resources. There is much debate over this as I learned when I took another MET course, ETEC 521: Indigeneity, Technology and Education. First Nations, Metis and the Inuit all look to their elders for their history, oral story telling and view them with the highest respect. What some elders aren’t so great with, is technology. They view technology as another tool that will diminish their culture and heritage. How can Indigenous cultures evolve with the times and incorporate technology without compromising who they are? This is a very good question. How can we be certain that what we view on the internet is legitimate and is coming from a reliable source? These can be setbacks, but I do believe that they will be overcome with time. Recording oral stories is one way that will allow all Indigenous cultures to save some history and can still be passed on from generation to generation.
What else will be seen in the year 2024? According to Alexander (2014), digital-storytelling will be seen in public and private spaces. We all had first had experience creating our own digital story within this course and we will definitely see more of this with the years to come. Instead of seeing billboards while walking down the street, we will see more digital and virtual boards popping up everywhere. Instead of paintings hanging on our wall, we will have digital stories hanging. Once I created my digital story using Videoscribe, I now have commercials coming from this company when I watch Youtube. Is this a coincidence? Perhaps. Digital stories can be used for so many things. I have a feeling Alexander (2014) is right.
From now looking into the future, it is up to us educators to adapt with the times and embrace the change. We should use technology in the class and make the most of it. Would I have liked to have grown up with technology such as our kids today do? The answer, no. I like seeing how technology has evolved since my time in elementary school and now can see first hand how it can affect the classroom, for the better.
Alexander, B. (2014). Higher education in 2014: Glimpsing the future. Educause Review, 4(5) Retrieved from: http://www.educause.edu/ero/article/higher-education-2024-glimpsing-future?