Based on what I know about the zone of proximal development, I need to find a middle ground between what students know (no learning taking place) and what they have to learn. Similar to the sample lesson in 10.e, I would start with goals my students have for their future–whether it be getting into a middle school of their choice, having a good job, or going to college. I would ask them what kinds of behaviors and characteristics would help them achieve those goals, and which actions or behaviors might be hurtful if a future employer or interviewer found out about them. We would then discuss how digital footprints can put both bad and good out into the world–sometimes forever! I would hope that by teaching them that the same values that are important for face to face relationships matter in digital interactions as well would prevent negativity in their digital footprints.
Finding Middle Ground
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