Should we be concerned?

"Parent or Pal" seems to be an ever-present question for both parents and educators. Should we be concerned about virtual teen behavior any more than we are about their behavior in the "real world"? Have we given as much thought to the many positive online behaviors of teens? Even a cursory glance at news articles brings several areas for concern to the forefront. An essential question is what is our reaction to these concerns, and what is reasonable action to take in order to address these concerns.

Some of the topics in the headlines include
-Teens are prime targets for marketers but they are not necessarily "consumer savvy." This brings out the issue of financial vulnerability.
-Teens and issues of health is a multifaceted problem. Obesity, bullying, pregnancy, sex, drinking, depression, and risky behaviors are affected by digital influences and media use. Teens do not always consider long term consequences of behaviors, but are more than capable of engaging in those behaviors.
-Teens and digital/media peer pressure is an interesting topic. Several articles and studies refer to media serving as a peer influence. typically teens are influenced by what they think other kids are doing, and how they behave. The media may be "helping shape the social script for teenagers." ( American Academy of Pediatrics) Teens may be getting a distorted view of what's acceptable from their "digital friends".
-Teens and their parents may be growing farther apart, giving new meaning to the term 'digital divide." Parents often do not understand or monitor the online behavior of their children, or underestimate what their children are doing. Parents are very often left "out of the loop" because teens can easily go online for information, guidance and friendships. They can avoid parental involvement by using wireless access through their cellphones.
-Teens and cheating has become a major education issue. There has always been cheating, but now the tools are more powerful and accessible.

The impact of students in the market place cannot be treated lightly. A great deal of money and effort has been spent on studying the influence of teens and how marketers should capture the teen segment.

As a school librarian I see a huge obligation and opportunity to educate students, teachers, and parents about teens and technology, especially in the areas noted above. Next year I will be teaching a media literacy course at the high school and although it will not reach every student, I think this is a great chance to begin the process in our school. Nothing like this has ever been offered there. Part of our technology plan is to provide parent education and communication. The website www.commonsensemedia.org provides terrific and very usable educator resources for addressing many of the concerns listed above. You can register at that site as an educator, and receive free materials.

I'll keep you 'posted' on how the curriculum for this class shapes up.