Socialising in the 21st century.

It's been exactly 2 years 3 months now since I last view the gamebox as evil, mind numbing and bad for my child.

Ever since the beginning of our homeschooling journey, when Junior opt to deschool via his playstation, I have research the internet for thoughts and opinions, read lots of books and held lots of discussion with Papa Gecko. I am now, a very strong supporter towards gaming as the 21st century tool of learning. My past blogs have mentioned the lessons spawned from just psp games, and I have written about how our children's world will be so technology based, so much so, any screen or gadget is as familiar to them as our microwave is to us.

Now, Junior has asked for an Xbox, simply because it can be connected to the internet, enhancing the experience of his gaming. It is about interaction with many more people will playing your game, or playing the game with another person somewhere in the world. It is actually online community, but this is thru the gamebox, instead of the computer.

This Xbox wanting started when his best friend was given one for Xmas. And eversince then, his best friend has made more friends online and is now more keen on playing and communicating with his new online friends, neglecting Junior in the process.

I can see now how if Junior don't have one, he is effectively being left out, an outcast, separated from the "online playground". Which makes me think, is this how socialising will evolve for our kids?

It is already happening, people are socialising online. With the numerous online community like War Craft, Second Life and Facebook and many more.

I enjoy Facebooking. Now that I'm on the other side of the world from my family and friends, it helps me stay connected to them. I don't feel isolated anymore. I'm always up to speed with everyone's plans and vice versa.

So this is it. Could it be that, to not be able to play Xbox Live online, means that Junior is not part of the social fabric that's being weaved now?

I do think so, well at least when it comes to his best friend. I'm thinking perhap, if they can't meet up in human form, they can still meet up and play together in cyber form, in thier cyber playground, right?

Well, at least for sure, if this social connection is established, it doesn't matter where in the world we are, Junior will still be able to keep his best friend.

As always, Junior is pushing me out of my boundary, kicking me out of my comfort zone, and dragging me into new territory. He's opening my eyes to new perspectives. Just like he did, 2 years 3 months ago.

While I'm supposed to be homeschooling him, it seems like he is unschooling me instead LOL!