What Do Kids REALLY Know About Tech?

For years educators have been saying, "Don't be fooled. Kids don't know everything about technology." Of course, they want their parents and teachers to think they do, and they are super at text messaging, sending IMs, using cell phones, MP3 players, setting up gadgets and computers, and making adults feel inferior about tech knowledge.  But when it comes to being savvy about applications and Internet understanding they'll need to have for college and the work world, many kids are found lacking. They spend so much time "connecting" that they don't have any time left for what they may consider the less exciting aspects of the digital world. One problem with scheduling kids for sessions on computer skills is attitude. Kids often think they know these skills, or can learn them if they ever need them, without a problem. Sure, they are digital natives and tech comes easy to them. That's great. It may just take them less time to learn what they need to learn-like writing appropriate email, knowing how to use spreadsheets, understanding databases, creating charts and graphs, finding the best sites for research, practicing polite and safe behavior online, using technology as a personal assistant ....