It is interesting how in, Grown Up Digital, Trapscott
explains how so many young people hardly vote. “The Net Generation does not put
much trust in politicians and political institutions – not because they’re
uninterested, but rather because political systems have failed to engage them
in a manner that fits their digital and ethical up bringing”
This is exactly how I am as a voter. Since I live in the
bush I do not have the time or money to go places to support candidates at rallies
or help with their campaign. But I am more motivated to help a candidate if I
can join an online group or rally. The more the candidates campaign utilizes
online, digital tools, the more motivated I am to participate in the political
process.
A good article put out by USNews talks about the ”5 ways new
media are changing politics”. The article talks about how the new media is
impacting the events of the world. For example through twitter the Red Cross
raised $8 million. The 5 ways that are mentioned are:
1. News
you can choose
2. Share
this.
3. Like
it.
4. Connect
with others
5. Donate
Now
I also like how Tapscott mentions what happens after a
candidate gets elected. In the old system “we vote, they rule.” In this system,
it was our duty to elect the perfect candidate. If we can do that, then we can
trust that the candidate has our interests in mind when he/she governors. Net
Gens have caused a change in the system. No longer do we step out of the
political process after a candidate is elected. Net Gens want to “contribute
ideas to the decision making process” They fell like they need to continue to
help and support the candidate after being elected.
Obama has done a good job of keeping everyone involved. A
Huffington Post article, Obama and the Reinvention of Democracy, talks
about what Obama has done to keep people included in government. “He's mobilizing the millions
of young people who supported his presidential campaign to help him as he
prepares to govern a troubled country.” What neat is how Obama sent out emails
to all his campaign supporters asking for their continued support.
Sources:
Cary,
M. K. (2010, February 3). 5 Ways New Media Are Changing Politics. US News.
Retrieved June 30, 2014, from
http://www.usnews.com/opinion/slideshows/5-ways-new-media-are-changing-politics
Tapscott,
D. (2009). Grown up digital: how the net generation is changing your world.
New York: McGraw-Hill.
Tapscott,
D. (2008, December 8). Obama and the Reinvention of Democracy. The
Huffington Post. Retrieved June 30, 2014, from http://www.huffingtonpost.com/don-tapscott/obama-and-the-reinvention_b_148772.html
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ReplyDeleteBrian-
ReplyDeleteI think your motivation to participate in the political process online can become infectious if you model this for your students. Your point is valid being in remote Alaska and the difficulties those in your situation are faced with when it comes to being physically present with a campaign. In the past, your only option may have been to show financial support which many are not in a position or willing to do so. Do your students have any role in online activism or civic engagements in remote Alaska?
My students seem to only take an interest when it comes to things that impact their world. For example my students are very passionate about the Pebble Mine. They are against the mine. They feel in will hurt the salmon population. Some of my student have started voicing their opinions on Facebook.
DeleteI agree with Natalie if you model the importance for your students, they may take an interest too. If you can use real world examples like the Pebble Mine and tie it to other causes around the world, it will open there eyes to life outside their rural village. They may even feel empowered to be a part of something important.
ReplyDeleteIt was interesting to watch the election campaigns when Obama was elected. Whether you supported him or not, it was hard not to be impressed by the way his campaign ignited political interest with the younger generation. As campaigning begins to ramp up again, it's apparent other politicians are trying to follow the same example. Technology and the internet will undoubtedly be a major component of any future political process. This will continue to open up opportunities for more people to become involved. For teachers out in the bush such as yourself, this will provide multiple ways to engage students in politics.
ReplyDelete