Different generations can have a different understanding of technological advancements, modes of communication and perception of how things should be approached. It is important to take these into consideration before judging a student or assuming what a student "should" know or understand without explanation. Clearly a course cannot cater to each individual students needs specifically but as an instructor we can provide some campassion and individual guidance to ease the student into unfamiliar territory rather than discourage them by making them feel stupid for not understanding something for which they may have never been exposed to.
Jennifer,
We are all different and we need to take that into consideration. These are essential when considering how you can reach different students in your online class. Nice job.
Because there are such stark differences between generations in terms of the influence that technology has had. Thus instructors should be aware how to reach different generations and some of the general characteristics and learning styles of each generation.
Valerie,
We are all different and I like that you note each generation has a different definition of success. We have many experiences in our lives that we base that definition on. Thanks!
Each generation has a different definition of success based on the value they place on family, work and personal fulfillment and the use of technology.
For example, Gen Y’ers have grown up with social networks as part of their daily experiences, course designers and instructors need to realize the need to adapt to the communication and learning styles.
Veronica,
I like that you used "DNA" to describe the generations. We really are all "built"of the same, yet different material. Thanks!
It is very important to understand the generational DNA of the students in each class. Understanding the various characteristics of each generation allows the instructor to incorporate learning and communication tools that will assist in the success of each student. In addition to understanding the characteristics of each generation, it is great to understand what is the most effective way to assist in the success of the each student.
Jacqueline,
Good idea. We can always use a good ice breaker in an online course. Thanks for adding to the conversation.
Understanding the age group will be important so that the instructor will understand some of the possible struggles that the student faces.
A Baby Boomer might not be able to text as easy as the X or Y Generation.
Baby Boomer might not understand why the X Generation does not like to work on Group Projects....
Discussing the various types of generations that are in the classroom might be a good idea and also an "ice breaker" for students to discuss the communication challenges that they face.
Jacqueline Bloink
Michael,
I like that you provided ways to motivate the various generations. These are helpful hints that we can all think about. Thanks!
Understanding the roles of generations is vital for communication success because you are learning about the person and why does or does not motivate them. Writing a personal well done message to a baby boomer goes a long way, where as allowing a millennial to have a free day for a job well done and sharing the technological achievement in communciation for the online community or the class appears to not bother either of the groups.
Kelly,
Ah - interesting. One generation is a continuation of the previous one. Thanks for adding that to the conversation. As we continue to learn about our students and understand the diversity, we can better help our students reach the learning objectives. Thanks!
Hello All,
As we all understand, each "generation" is just that a generation for the previous one. It can be seen as an advancement but really it is a continuation. Skills, and cultural perspective aside, ideas, options and the sharing of skills and processes that go along with them are key to learning. As we also know within generations there are sub groupings or counter groupings that lead to diversity as within the whole.
Thank you.
Kelly
Justin,
Good examples and information about the generations. Moving forward in getting to know your students, helps them move forward toward achieving the course objectives. Thanks!
The psychology and ethics of an individual can be partially defined and understood by the generation they are part of (or identify with). For example, I was born in 1980 which technically falls both within Gen-X and the Millennial generation. I find that I much more strongly identify with Gen-X and exhibit many traits that are associated with the culture of that group. Knowing this, I can also identify strengths and weaknesses in my own psychology. Likewise, understanding which generations your students come from gives you a tool. That tool will help you to meet your students at their level. The Gen-X student will always be looking for value and the Millennial has trouble separating their work from their self-esteem. You can very easily criticize a Gen-X student and you'll meet a dispassionate shoulder shrug and the question "so how do I do better next time?" This gives you an opportunity to build value as an expert. The Millennial on the other hand might get hurt feelings and question why you don't like them. Therefore a positive, constructive criticism approach will be best. Helping the student to learn what they did wrong and begin to separate their self-esteem from their coursework. It can be difficult, but understanding these facets can lead to a very effective classroom.
Keisha,
Good point about noting we have to expand our understanding from inside the classroom to outside as well. You're right in that's it's our goal to help students be successful. Nice job.
It is important to understand the role generations play in communication in (and outside of) the online community because it helps you to effectively reach your students on a level with which they are comfortable. Finding different ways to deliver the course material that allows all generations to learn is key to maximizing student success and satisfation.
Frank,
Yes, we're different as adults and we have to communicate with different people in different ways. It's the same with our students, no matter what age. Thanks!
Your definitely correct about all students deserving an equal opportunity at the class and we need to understand different ways to address them so they can be successful.
Bonnie,
You are right. We have to think about quality education for all students. It should matter what generation or what learning disability they may have. Thanks for your input.
