I am a reluctant blogger. I only finally got on Facebook because a group of my international friends communicate solely through Facebook, and it was the only way to see photos and get updates on a regular basis. I am still pleasantly clueless about Twitter, even though I find it amusing to hear Steve Inskeep tell people to follow him every morning as I listen to NPR on my way to work. But I am an educator, and eventually get on the train of the latest technology because I know the importance of at least somewhat understanding the world of the students we are educating.
In graduate school, one of my major research projects was investigating the digital divide between faculty and students, and pointing out how we have a different perception and use of technology in how we communicate. There are pros and cons- our students seem to bring themselves to the cutting edge of technology and demonstrate independent learning (pro), but sometimes the boundaries between what is real and what is virtual are blurred or confused (con). But sometimes even the pro/con is unclear, and it is just a matter of a different perception and use.
So in the way that I have read Lemony Snickett, City of Ember, and the Twilight series (yes, I read them all), I am blogging. One of the aspects of INTL* that I love and hold dear is the constant opportunity to perceive the world in a variety of ways, to look at a problem from many viewpoints, and to constantly interact with numerous cultures. It is this experience that drives me to jump on the blog wagon, so that I can not only share my own perceptions but also the nuggets of wisdom and insight one can gain from an international community with a global mission.
*In 2020, the International School of the Peninsula (ISTP) formally changed its name to Silicon Valley International School (INTL) to better reflect its bilingual programs, location, and international values.
