Nature Vs. Technology
January 13, 2017 l Adriana Mercuri
Where Do We Draw The Line?
Technology continues to become a major influence on the world, as it evolves daily and interests more and more consumers. As educators, it is important for us to understand where to draw the line when it comes to technology and nature in curriculum. Although it is great to incorporate the use of technology in education, it is also important to continue promoting the importance of nature. Technology may be something important to many, but nature is important for survival and if we don't educate children about this, the world can suffer greatly; the children of today are the future of tomorrow.
Over 80% of the US population now lives in urban areas, meaning that most of todays children live in either an urban or suburban environment. When children go outside, they often see only streets, buildings, shops, cars, and more people. In addition, young children are often exposed to the importance of reducing pollution and recycling, but may not be taught or fully understand the reason behind these concepts.
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How Can We Incorporate Nature & Technology in Curriculum?
"By integrating the two seemingly opposed areas of nature and technology, we can create an opportunity for young children to become both environmentally and technologically literate."
Growing up, I was always told about pollution and global warming, however, the only way we were taught to reduce global warming was by recycling our garbage. Educators never expanded on the issue, nor made it a big deal which is an issue because global warming is a huge problem and if the children of today are not informed about it or inspired to make a change, the future world will get worse.
Educators can integrate technology and media with environmental education through activities that encourage children to explore, create, problem solve, communicate, collaborate, document, investigate, and demonstrate their learning about the world outside of their classroom.
Here is a list of Technology/Nature-based Activities:
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Take pictures/videos in nature
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Geocaching (geocaching is "equal parts scavenger hunting, hiking, outdoor adventure, and gift exchange with a technological twist."
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Here are some links from Pinterest of Technology/Nature-based Activities:
Phineas & Ferb: Mother Nature Vs. Technology
Phineas & Ferb is a popular show that children of all ages watch. In one particular episode, Phineas & Ferb create a music video about nature vs. technology. In this catchy song, they go off to explain the difference between technology and nature and how nature is more important than technology; they explain that nature won. Since this is a popular show, children can get influenced by this song and better understand the digital divide that is occurring in our world today.
Educators can use this educational show to promote the importance of nature and the enjoyment of technology. Phones & Ferb are technology freaks but they always find a way to use technology to save the world. This show can inspire children to make a change by following the footsteps of Phineas & Ferb.