International Journal of Education and Development using ICT

International Journal of Education and Development using ICT > Vol. 9, No. 1 (2013)

‘Digital natives’: An Asian perspective for using learning technologies

D.M. Kennedy, James Cook University Australia, Singapore Campus
R. Fox, The University of Hong Kong

Abstract
Students entering universities in the 21st century have been described variously as digital natives, the millennial generation or the net generation. Considerable study has occurred around the world to determine the knowledge, skills, understanding and the purposes to which this group of individuals makes technology work for them. A number of researchers have begun to question some of the claims made for this group in terms of their ability to engage with and use technology for learning. To date there has been little information specific to the Asian learner and their use of technology. This paper begins with a description and analysis of a survey that examined the knowledge, skills and understanding of students entering first-year undergraduate studies at the University of Hong Kong. This description is followed by a discussion of the potential impact this has for the design of learning environments in higher education.

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