But Crosson sees the value in teaching students to engage critically with difficult subjects, including the impact of technology on society. She believes that teachers have a responsibility to help students understand and navigate the changes brought about by social media, artificial intelligence, and other technological advancements.
“I think that we’re in a moment right now where students are going to have to be able to figure out how to navigate a world that is going to be heavily influenced by technology, by artificial intelligence, by social media,” Crosson said. “And so, teaching them to be good readers, good writers, good thinkers, and good citizens is going to be essential.”
Crosson emphasized the importance of teaching students how to critically evaluate information they encounter online, as well as how to use technology responsibly and ethically. She believes that preparing students for a future where technology plays an increasingly central role in their lives is a key part of educators’ responsibilities.
“We can’t be afraid of the changes that are happening,” Crosson said. “We have to be willing to adapt, and we have to be willing to help guide our students through those changes.”
As technology continues to advance at a rapid pace, educators like Sarah Crosson are recognizing the importance of staying ahead of the curve to ensure that students are equipped with the necessary skills to navigate a digital world. Crosson, a teacher who works with Generation Z students, understands the impact that artificial intelligence and social media can have on young minds, both positively and negatively.
With the rise of social media platforms like TikTok and Instagram as primary sources of news for her students, Crosson has adapted her teaching methods to incorporate multimedia texts and analyses into her English Language Arts courses. She believes that it is crucial for students to learn how to critically engage with visual texts, as well as traditional written material, in order to navigate the vast amount of information available online.
Despite feeling somewhat out of her element when it comes to using AI-powered tools in the classroom, Crosson is committed to learning about these technologies in order to prepare her students for the future workforce. She recognizes that AI will play a significant role in their professional lives and wants to ensure that they are equipped to use these tools in a productive, effective, and ethical manner.
The integration of AI and social media into the classroom may seem daunting, but Crosson views it as a huge opportunity for growth and innovation. By embracing these technologies and incorporating them into her teaching practice, she is setting her students up for success in a rapidly evolving digital landscape.
Overall, Crosson’s approach highlights the importance of adaptability and forward-thinking in education. By staying ahead of technology trends and equipping students with the necessary skills to navigate a digital world, educators can prepare the next generation for success in an increasingly tech-driven society.
