Incorporating NETS Into Your Homeschool

No matter how much my grandma wants to resist it, technology is becoming an essential part of our daily lives.  We can't watch television without a digital converter, a satellite, or some other device.  Analog cell phones are a thing of the past.  Many university students cannot complete their studies without a laptop.  Even many public middle and high schools are requiring a flash drive as part of their school supply list.  When I took my son to the doctor last week, I didn't even speak to a receptionist.  I checked him in for his appointment at one of many touch screen stations that are set up near the entrance.  Technology is taking over our lives and it's in a hurry to do it.

 

While homeschooling families are only obligated to follow their state guidelines for homeschooling, because of the surge in technology, it can't hurt to be aware of the national guidelines for technology.  NETS, or National Educational Technology Standards is a list of standards compiled by members of the ISTE (International Society for Technology in Education).  They have broken down the standards into several groups, one of which is NETS for Students.  You will find some highlights* of those standards below.

 

The National Educational Technology Standards for Students

 

• Demonstrate creative thinking, construct knowledge, develop innovative products using technology.
• Use digital media and environments to communicate and work collaboratively, including at a distance...
• Apply digital tools to gather, evaluate, and use information.
• Use critical thinking skills to plan and conduct research, manage projects, solve problems, and make informed decisions using appropriate digital tools.
• Understand human, cultural, and societal issues related to technology and practice legal and ethical behavior.
• Demonstrate a sound understanding of technology concepts, systems, and operations. 

 

Even if you are like my grandma and want to keep things as simple as possible, remember that things are changing.  Our children are growing up in a digital environment and we need to be responsible for making sure they're equipped to survive and be successful in it.  Incorporate technology into your lesson planning.  Teach your child to use PowerPoint, online games, web quests, virtual science labs, digital cameras, GPS devices...the list is endless. 

 

*The full outlines for NETS can be found in a PDF file by going to ISTE dot org and clicking on the NETS link on the right side of the page.