Faith and the Digital Economy

Awareness fosters a greater prayer life for me. The bible clearly states that as believers we are not to put our trust in man but rather in the Father. Therefore, I believe that it is prudent for me to abreast of the events that occur around me daily in order that I may walk in IIChron. 7:14, If my people who are called by my name will humble themselves and pray and seek my face, and turn form their wicked ways; then will I hear from heaven, and will forgive their sin, and will heal their land. Diversity as always existed whether between the Jew and the Gentile or the Digital Native and the Digital Immigrant. Understanding and respect are the constant ingredients that pepper the landscape of being able to appreciate and embrace the differences while discovering all the while that there is far more that unites than separates us.

Generational DIfferences

Generational differences have long been a conversation filled with consternation and exasperation. Misunderstandings seem to rule the day. Covey, in Seven Habits of Highly Effective People, says that if we seek first to understand and then to be understood that the process will result in win/win solutions. He defines maturity as the balance between courage and consideration. He says that seeking to require consideration; seeking to be understood takes courage. Ergo, diversity issues whether racial/ethnicity or digitally can begin the process of fostering win/win solutions if we are willing to be mature, considerate and courageous. .

Disparities

Disparities other than money? Hmmm. Stress levels created by noxious family relationships, alcohol/drug abuse and peer pressure contribute greatly to school failure, dropout rates and unemployment. Historically, mental health, criminal justice and the education system interact with this population in an inconsistent manner. A student is sent to alternative school for punishment or holding until your old enough to drop out or commit some offense that will get him/her expelled. Then of course, the criminal justice system is very ready to assume responsibility for them. While incarcerated they may receive treatment for substance abuse if that is an issue but not for much else.

How to address it, since we have already established alternative settings why not make them more effective by implementing a multidisciplinary approach that incorporates stress management skills, training in goal development and problem solving, individual group and family counseling and training in employability, social and life skills. Comprehensive treatment plans would actually be developed for each student. This of course would be in addition to academic remediation especially academic skills necessary for life functions. I believe that Liz has this kind of heart toward her students and she may be doing some of things suggested. (Gamble & Satcher, 2007)