Because Baby Boomers, Gen X and Gen Y all have very different learning styles and ways in which they would like to communicate. Therefore, it would be very important for insturctors to consider, understand, and acknowledge so that all generations will be successful in completing the course.
Kimberly,
We learn something new every day. I even tell my students I learn something new every day just to let them know they should be too. ;-) It's good we learn about our students in each courses. I do think each generation brings new ideas and changes to the work world. We have to continue to think also that the various generations will balance things as well. Think about "way back when" - who would have thought companies like Google would exist and have such flexibility for employees. Also, remember when IBM was all blue suits and white shirts - that has changed as well. So, I think we should be positive and look forward to change. It's all good. Thanks for your input and questions.
That is so true! I know that for each course that I teach, I learn something new. The diversity in the classroom has really taught me a lot about the different learning styles and how to reach each member of the audience.
Do you think as Digital Natives start running companies, there will be big changes in organizations? They think faster, have to be busy all of the time and need to be engaged. What will that do for the rest of us?
Kim
Michael,
It's good to understand the generations in general and it can help us, as instructors, provide course content in a variety of ways. Thanks for your input.
I have a cross-section of the generations in my courses. I have to use different communication skills and approaches depending on the generation.
Baby Boomers tend to want clear instruction or outlines to help them understand course material.
Generation X love technology and want to use it any way I can incorporate it into the course.
Marjorie,
We never know what our students may "bring to the table." Therefore, we have to make sure we provide opportunities for all students. Thanks for your input through this forum.
Tanya,
Without diversity, how boring would our jobs be? The different generations bring such diversity. Helping all students learn is the key. Thanks!
In an online environment, you may have students:
1) who are presently active in the military
2) who are having major personal issues
3) who have English as their second language
4) who may be fresh out of high school
5) who may not have taken any courses for many years
6) who may not have strong computer skills
7) who may not have strong prerequisite skills for your course
8) who may have poor communication skills
9) who may have low self-confidence
10) who are greatly affected by the "generation level"
All of these issues quite often stem from which generation they come from. It is always easiest to understand the student who is from your own generation. But the effect the generation level plays in the approach the student has towards your online course is great. They may or may not like working as a member on a team. They will , many of them, want immediate feedback. Quite often, a student's prerequisite skills are lacking, including knowledge of the computer.
I have had students who were affected by any number of the above listed items. How about you ?
Sincerely,
Marjorie Thrall Moller
Robin,
You are so right. We are all different but we all do have value we can add to the course and discussions. Thanks for your input.
Harry,
You are so right. We have to use various methods for our various students We are all different in so many ways.
Thanks.
There are times when one method that is successful for one generation will not be for a different one. The medium can often convey or obscure the message depending upon the intended recipient.
Generational roles play a big part in the instructor being able to understand the student's communication style and needs. As was discussed in the course content, different generational roles have different perspectives on communication and interaction so if the instructor does not work to identify these differences; the instructor is not going to address the students' potential concerns. Setting expectations is always important; in communication, it is extremely important because so much of online courses are based on different types of communication. Ensuring students are aware of expectations or requirements as early as possible can help avoid potential issues later in the course.
I have had students who are experts in technology and others who haven't ever used a computer. There's a strong correlation with technology use and generations, and it has effected its members in different ways. Every person has his value and is in class to learn. It's important for an instructor to know what may be hindering or helping the student in the classroom. Being aware of generational differences is a clue, and often helps with knowing how to address the student's needs.
Lyn ,
Definitely - communication has changed. Many do not deal with change well and we have to help them adapt. It's important to help all generations within your classroom understand the communication expectations. Nice job.
Joseph,
Yes, we are all different - for sure. I like to tell students that our differences are what bring us together in the learning process. We can all learn from someone who is different from us. Thanks!
Dawn,
Many Gen Xers did grow with the technology. We all learn from others and learning across generations is the best. Thanks for your input. I learned a lot from my grandparents as well. ;-)
Hi everyone, it is important because communication has changed over the years. Baby boomers may be more formal in their style of communication, whereas later generations are used to the informal chatty tone of social media, or the short cuts we use in texting.
I have tried to keep up with the various methods of communication used now; but, I still ask for professional, clear writing in our discussion boards and written assignments.
I am more flexible or lenient in class chats and emails when speed may overcome accuracy. But, the tone should always be polite, no matter which generation. I do set those rules and will email students privately or provide more formal feedback about communication when reviewing assignments. Lyn Hoffmann
We have different generations with slightly different values and roles in online courses. We also have traditional and non-traditional students. We need to understand the strengths and needs of each generation and to accommodate those when we design and facilitate a course. These differences may come in the form of communications style, technical skill, social skill, self-motivation, need for recognition and time management. Facilitators need to be sensitive to the generational differences and be ready to provide feedback that is useful and instructive for students.
Taking the time to understand the technological differences that is seen among generations is a benefit to the professor, as it will offer ways to help each student progress and learn. When we look at baby boomers and their lack of familiarity with today’s technology it can hinder their progress in the classroom.
Myself, as a Gen X, I know about party line phones, yet, I was lucky to start my computer experience in high school and grow along with it. Learning from my grandparents was the best experience I ever had.
It is important to learn from all generations, as each generation has new experiences.
Thank you,
Dawn
Christine,
Nice job. We have to think carefully about how we can provide learning for a variety of students. We have to use various tools and teaching tools to help all students engage in the content. Thanks!
