It seems like everyday there is some new form of technology being introduced to society. Everywhere you look people are connected in some way. Because I work at a high school, I get to see the effects of technology on our youth daily. Every hallway is crowded with students walking with their heads lowered and their eyes focused on their cell phones. Cell phones and technology have become an integral part of today's young peoples' daily lives. Students feel lost if they don't have their phone. They need the constant connection and stimulation technology provides.
21st Century Learners talks about how the need for technology in the classroom is so great. I have noticed a bit of a  disconnect between the schools and this idea. In every school I have taught there is a very strict no cell phone or iPod policy. The teachers take away cell phones and ipods if they are seen. I think this is sending mixed messages to the students. we are trying to use technology in the classroom, but at the same time we are treating it like it is something that must be hidden and only used in secret or behind the teachers back. I am not sure how to solve this problem because we don't want student texting during class, but I do feel like there must be a better way to make this connection.