IMO they are. I teach k12 esl(pre:edit, kindergarten to year 12 English as a second language), my highest levels - free conversation we tried a spot where students would tell us about an interesting news story they had seen, heard or read about in the last week. We have dropped that idea. 30 students over a month we're regularly admitting to not actually knowing any real news outside of their immediate circle.
Note that these students arnt known for slacking off when it comes to homework, we deliberately didn't set a goal, it was something we planned to ask in class without notice.
Small sample, absolutely. But it was eye opening for the 4 teachers in this.
Not sure if this will help the conversation, but a little anecdote doesn't hurt every now and then :-)
Personally, I've actively avoided reading the news lately. It just seems so pointless--what do I gain by reading about President Trump's latest antics or how bad the housing market is? I used to read my small city's local newspaper (hard copy) because it was news that actually applied to me, but it got shut down a year or two ago (unfortunately).
The only time I'll read the news is during an election, because I want to be at least somewhat informed.
Otherwise, I might hear about it from others or if it shows up on HN.
Note that these students arnt known for slacking off when it comes to homework, we deliberately didn't set a goal, it was something we planned to ask in class without notice.
Small sample, absolutely. But it was eye opening for the 4 teachers in this.
Not sure if this will help the conversation, but a little anecdote doesn't hurt every now and then :-)