adapting to different learning styles
Learning how to adjust to each class is an ongoing process.
Yes, it is amazing how the makeup of each new classroom can be totally different. Sometimes we have all Gen Y. Other times we might have a larger number of Boomers. We still have to teach the same material, but I find myself changing the delivery methods to get better responsiveness and outcomes.
Gary,
this is a great point. Too often we either complain or we lower ourselves to "connect" when we should be pushing them to raise themselves to a higher level.
Ryan Meers, Ph.D.
I agree there is a disconnect with these students I think if we present ourself in a professional manner it's possible that the gen Y student may mirror themself to us
I agree. The demographics of students we have here are mainly the gen y students. One of the biggest challenges for me is getting them to use the resources they have for their studies
Katrina,
this is a great plan as it helps them see life from a different perspective & encourages the embracing of diversity.
Ryan Meers, Ph.D.
Definitely an ongoing process. I find that it is helpful to seat people in class from different generations together. Each generation has different ways/styles of learning and it is helpful when they can learn from each other as well as from the instructor. They each have opportunities to share their experiences with their fellow classmates.
Carol,
and this is a great reason to illustrate our own adaptabilities & flexibility in regard to learning styles & preferences.
Ryan Meers, Ph.D.
I always inform my students they should be able to adapt to different teaching techniques. Once they start working in a medical office they will need to adjuts to their working techniques.
Emily,
there does seem to be a greater need with this generation to encourage them & help them in the area of professionalism both in behavior & dress.
Ryan Meers, Ph.D.
the gen y are a bit challenging. They want to constantly be on the phone. Getting them to wear the proper attire and keep hair up on a daily basis is a challenge. the older students I don't have a problem.
Joseph,
this is a great point & one that I try to do as well. I don't have to be a total "techie" but being able to relate & sound semi-intelligent I believe is important in connecting with Gen Y learners.
Ryan Meers, Ph.D.
I feel bridging the generational gap by familiarizing myself with current social trends using social networking sites and other online sources like Youtube helps me to better relate with Gen Y students. Sometimes using a current reference while instructing lets them know I am not completly out of touch with their world.
definitely true one of the ways i do I re-prepare the course in a different way so i get different ideas and actually it's exciting to me and to the students
stan,
I would agree that this seems to be one of the most significant challenges. We live in an ever-increasingly casual culture & I find this rubbing off on the Gen Y students in regard to many areas.
Ryan Meers, Ph.D.
Professionalism seems to be an ongoing concern with Gen Y students. They seem to sometimes reject the notion that looking and acting professional has a bearing on their ultimate success.
John,
and I've learned that Gen Y learners seem to appreciate this humility & approach on our part. When we show them that we are willing to grow & learn, they are more willing to listen to what we have to say.
Ryan Meers, Ph.D.
A co-worker and I did role playing of professional and unprofessional dressing. The students were the interviewer. I was very impressed how one student mentioned that it was like looking in the mirror. The role playing was an image of her professional attire. As you mentioned first impression is vital to gaining employment in the professional world. Now my students have a better understanding as to not do as you see but do what is right for you.
Yes every class is not the same so you must have a plan b,c, and d to go to when plan a does not work sometimes what a student thinks is their best learning style is not but it takes some time to discover this. I find that I am always looking for a better way to get it done but the search continues
Vatina,
yes, hammer this point home to your students as much as possible. There often is a disconnect between what they see in general & what reality is. The old rules regarding first impressions are still very much in place & looking & acting like a professional are key.
Ryan Meers, Ph.D.
