Blog Post #2

I have a great deal experience using Microsoft Word. Being an English major, over the course of my educational career, I have written my fair share of papers and taken quite a bit of notes for my respective courses. I've been using Microsoft Word since I was in elementary school. It is a great word processing software. In my estimation, it is the standard amongst word processing software. Primarily, I have used it mainly for creating documents, such as brochures, letters, papers, etc. However, I have a lot of experience using other word processing software's such as Google Docs. Now, in the past, I have probably used Google Docs more extensively than Microsoft Office due to its level of convenience. Documents in Google's software can be accessed much easier and frequently on a multiplicity of electronic devices at my disposal. As far as preference is concerned, I'd probably lean more towards Microsoft Word for writing more serious documents in, but I'm just as comfortable and confident in Google Docs if the circumstances compelled me to it. 

Out all of the ITSE standards, the one standard that stands out the most prominently to me is Standard 2.1 (Learner).  It simply means that educators perpetually enhance themselves by making a commitment towards continuing to learn from others who have had success in their field, and not only that, but by making strides toward implementing modern technology to improve student learning. It also implies that any educator, on any level, must have the ability to adapt. Adaptability is crucial! The ability to adapt to ever-changing circumstances. However, adaptation cannot be attained without the willingness to learn. There's an inevitable commitment that must be made towards being a lifelong learner. 

I wholeheartedly agree with the "digital native" label that's placed on today's youth. To be a "digital native" simply refers to a person born or brought up during the age of digital technology and therefore familiar with computers and the internet from an early age. I have noticed some differences between myself and my instructors in the manner in which we use technology, but for the most part, it's not much of a difference. The attitude, mentality, and approach towards technology is probably what differs the most between my instructors and I, but primarily, the way we use technology is the same.  It is mostly utilized in a similar fashion. For example, social media, entertainment, work, research, and so forth.