Courtesy in a highly polarized society

Much digital information with which I consume and interact is very emotionally charged in this day and age. As educators and adults, we should take the "high road" and not inflame the rhetoric. Let us seek to use the digital technology in ways that accomplish the learning and growing process and move us forward. That requires a high level of discernment, restraint, and maturity. We set the example. Let our postings, writings, and opinions serve to benefit the discussion and not exacerbate the polarization that is so prevalent at this time.

I would agree with educators taking the "high road."  I think this is a challenging time as many kids may be learning about "digital citizenship," but if the adults in their lives are not leading by example, and the students are not seeing an repercussions, it can be a confusing time for them.

I recognize I'm "old-fashioned" in this regard. I'm not at all certain I agree with the premise of a research project, paper, or literary review being accomplished solely from research done online. I very much believe primary sources such as books, periodicals, academic papers, lectures, etc. should be incorporated into a overall academic experience. But I'm interested in your thoughts. Is this the sole way knowledge will be acquired in the future? Will "paper" totally disappear?

Kristen, you're exactly right. Parents and adults are expecting teachers, administrators and whole school districts to do far more than they were ever intended to do. I also see the disconcerting trend with the relationships between teachers and parents becoming increasingly adversarial rather than cooperative and collaborative. I have substituted in schools in Texas, Oklahoma, and here in Iowa. Despite the issues with which educators contend here in Iowa, let me assure you that Iowa schools are a dream come true when compared with other schools where I've subbed and the schools I attended in Houston growing up. Genuinely dangerous places.