Bridges
I have had to think more about bridging the digital divide after
transitioning from a large university where there is a computer for
every student in every English classroom, to a smaller state school in
a rural mountain setting.
Many of my students enter my class unsure about sending attachments but
leave with experience in video production. Instead of viewing their
limited skills as a setback, I see the video project as an opportunity
for students to not only improve their computer literacy skills but
boost their self-confidence when it comes to using and embracing
technology.
From the early on in the semester, I always let my students know that I
am available during office hours to give one-on-one instruction and
help them work through any technical problems they may have, and every
semester several of them take me up on this offer.
I also offer the use of my own video camera and allow students
to use video footage from their cell phones for the project if need be.
In other words, I don’t let access concerns limitations lower my
expectations for these students. I have found that when I keep my
expectations for them high, they strive to reach and even surpass those
expectations. As you can see from the videos they have produced, I have
not been disappointed. >>