Marc Prensky

Marc Prensky, coiner of the terms “Digital Native” and “Digital Immigrant,” is an internationally acclaimed speaker, writer, consultant, and innovator in the fields of education and learning. Recognized worldwide for his forward-thinking perspectives on learning and technology, Prensky is acclaimed for his original and innovative ideas. He effectively combines practical insights with his visionary outlook, which has led to his recognition as a thought leader who not only proposes new ideas but also implements them effectively.

In education, Prensky advocates for a curriculum that resonates with the digital generation, promoting a "partnering" pedagogy between students and teachers that enhances motivation and engagement for both parties. His approach extends to the business sector, where he provides insights on thriving in a digitally turbulent 21st century. Prensky's global talks foster unique dialogues between educators and students, as well as managers and workers, focusing on optimizing teaching, training, and learning processes in the digital age.

Prensky's pioneering work in digital game-based learning has established him as an early innovator in integrating technology with education to teach future-oriented skills such as problem-solving, collaboration in online communities, video-making, and programming. He champions the use of individual passions as motivators in education and encourages active student participation in the design of their learning experiences.

With a prolific output of ten books and over 200 essays and articles, Prensky's contributions include notable titles such as "Digital Game-Based Learning," "Don’t Bother Me Mom – I’m Learning," "Teaching Digital Natives: Partnering for Real Learning," "From Digital Natives to Digital Wisdom," and "BRAIN GAIN: Technology and the Quest for Digital Wisdom." His books, including "EDUCATION TO BETTER THEIR WORLD: Unleashing the Power of 21st-Century Kids" and "EMPOWERED!: Re-framing ‘Growing Up’ for a New Age" (2022), have been transformative, earning accolades and influencing educational practices globally. His article "Digital Natives, Digital Immigrants," published in 2001, has been seminal in shaping discussions about generational differences in technology use.

Prensky's academic background is extensive and distinguished, with degrees from Oberlin College, Yale University, Middlebury College, and an MBA from The Harvard Business School with distinction. His diverse career includes roles on Broadway, Wall Street, and as a corporate strategist with the Boston Consulting Group, before focusing his energies on education and learning—a field where he continues to drive significant impact.

Living in New York, Marc Prensky's life is enriched by his family, including his wife Rie, a Japanese writer, and their son Sky. His work, marked by a commitment to leveraging technology for educational reform and empowerment, continues to inspire educators, business leaders, and policy makers around the world.