Social Networking Conference
So I got lost in the one-way system of Tamworth and pulled into the kerb to ask the way to the Palace Venue ... 'You're there love.' was the response as the lady pointed to a low building. And so I was !
I have now stood and performed on the same stage as 'The Bay City Rollers' ... but not at the same time!
As for the Conference itself, I came away with a personal task to revisit my views on the security/e-safety agenda. For me it seemed to fill the Conference for, apart from the thirty minutes of 'lightning talks' where six of us gave a brief overview of software/products etc, the thrust of the morning was based on 'opportunities and risks' with the stress on risks and responsibilities.
Now, if the people at the Conference represent a cross section of those who need to think about these things then it is clear to me that there are things I should think about too.
But it worries me that I heard cyber-bullying over and over. I know it is important that we are all aware of what goes on and I know that I have a responsibility to educate about it, BUT I also have a responsibility to be optimistic and excited about what I (and young people) can do now that I couldn't do before.
Those who know me will be aware that in life I am a risk taker. I weigh things up and work out if the risk is worth it and will it affect others before I 'jump' ... but, the chances are, I will jump.
I want our young people to be exciting and confident risk takers and, to a great extent, I think they are. Is it us who are holding them back for our safety and security. In preparation for the Conference I spoke to some young people about what they did and what they felt and was challenged by one lad who simply said 'We're not stupid you know.' .... I wonder ... are we?
We are all aware that our youngest children now do not play out any more. They get ferried from pillar to post because of the dangers that lurk in our minds ( and, I will concede out THERE). They wear goggles to play conkers, they don't climb trees, they are 'watched' by adults everywhere they go. Our young people need adult free space in their lives so that they can lead them. We just need to get the education right.
I have posted this video before but make no excuse for posting it again. Just listen please.
But I will go back and revisit what I think.
posted by Doug @ 10:10
1 Comments
1 Comments:
I agree with your viewpoint that children need to be allowed/ no encouraged /to take risks. This is the way they grow up.
Recently, on a walk, in a park of a small town, I realised I was looking at a 'death run' that was being used regularly by locals.
It consisted of a wooden one board slide that plunged downhill at about 30 deg to the horizontal only to lead to a mud gulley and bushes as it descended even faster.
It was being used by skateboarders.
So much for conkers and visors.
Now there is a need for adults to give warnings to youngsters about the risks they take . In New Zealand apparently there is a concern that youths are outdoing each other in taking risks and suicides result.
in general where there is some adult involvement, the young know where to draw the line.
Why are educators so concerned?
Possibly because they are not risk takers and are fearful of being seen as negligent. Most are living in a very strange working environment where risk is not part of a 'successful' life.
Best to give educators a wide berth if you're looking for mature responsible adults. Their growth as people has been severely impaired in my opinion.
Post a Comment
<< Home