youth culture in the digital age

While at first I found myself feeling skeptical about the Macarthur Foundation's study, "Living and Learning with New Media: Summary of Findings from the Digital Youth Project," I began to understand the value of taking away barriers to youth in the online communities to which they want access. The study states, "Participation in the digital age means more than being able to access 'serious' online information and culture. Youth could benefit from educators being more open to forms of experimentation and social exploration that are generally not characteristic of educational institutions" (Macarthur Foundation, 2008). If allowing youth to access online communities, information and culture that opens up their worlds and knocks down barriers to learning that would otherwise exist, then I certainly see the value in what this study presents.
I also think of LGBT youth who live in an intolerant family or attend a homophobic school. Having access to online communities and information can save these kids from self-hatred and self-destructive behaviors, as well as provide them with a feeling of community and bonding with others who may be having similar experiences.

Ruby Stardrum