Multimedia and Culture

Sherry Turkle (2004) says, “Information technology is identity technology. Embedding it in a culture that supports democracy, freedom of expression, tolerance, diversity, and complexity of opinion is one of the decade’s greatest challenges (p.B28).”


What role could multimedia instructional materials and student multimedia projects play in bringing about this culture?

Students are very different in this day and age. They are exposed to a wide variety of multimedia sources , more so than ever. We are competing in many ways with a technology crazed society. Our students are used to watching TV, playing video games, and surfing the Web. If we show up in our classrooms expecting them to listen to our lectures and discussions then we need to do some deep thinking. Education is more than just a teacher talking, but it is a chance for students to get immersed in the learning process in a variety of ways. Multimedia allows students the opportunity to take ownership of their learning and to make it their own. Thinking back to the original quote (see above), just imagine how different our world would be if we began creating a spirit of democracy from an early age? What would it be like if even the smallest child could embrace diversity, express their opinions openly, and appreciate the thoughts of those around them? Multimedia can be a jumping point for establishing this culture in your own classroom.

How can teachers’ use of multimedia support the development of such a culture?

Students should have opportunities to express their thinking in a variety of ways. Recently I have been experimenting with a FlipCamera in my classroom. The students have used it to record reading presentations, but also as a forum to share their thoughts to others. I have seen even the shyest of students open up and express their opinion even if for a few seconds. I feel in many ways a democratic society has squelched the idea of sharing ones honest opinions with others. Yes, there are many that are vocal with their opinions and viewpoints, but in the end many simply follow without expressing what they hold to be true. We should desire as educators to give our students the chance to become communicators that can listen to the opinions of others, but at the same time know how to communicate their own viewpoint to the world around them.

What are the challenges in your classroom?

1- Limited resources: Many of the technology items in our school are shared amongst staff. Lessons must be planned way in advance to assure that the proper technology is available.

2- Limited funds: Our school currently has less than 100 students. As we struggle to provide for the basic needs of our school, many times technology and multimedia items are pushed to the back burner to look at later.

3- Student Focus: As mentioned in question number one, our students are being raised in a very different time than we were raised in. In many ways we are trying to keep our multimedia driven students focused on learning and the task at hand. If the two can be combined the better the result.