Age Differences in One Class
As an online instructor, I have realized that the number and types of complaints from older students vary from students who are much younger. I didn't realize that the huge difference until I started taking ED102. I am wondering how I can please both students without making it seem like I am unfair.
Hi Jagrup,
Good strategy. Respect is powerful and meaningful for students. If they know they are accepted into the class by the instructor they will respect what the instructor is trying to do in terms of helping them achieve their career goals.
Gary
You are not there to please the students but to narrow the gap of learning among the different age groups. Treat all as one; give all the same mutual respect despite of age differences; be patient, and elabortate on issues/ideas not comprehended by the students.
I also at certain points will have more than one "generation" student at a time...I do the best I can at meeting all of their goals by really trying to connect with the students. If I can get to know something about them I can use that to my advantage to help keep them interested no matter what their age is.
Hi Jeff,
This is why it important to be clear and have a well prepared syllabus and assignment sheet in the hands of the students. This will reduce to a major extent many of the questions that students have about various requirements or expectations. There are always those students that use "selective" hearing to advance their cause or not meet a deadline. By having everything in print a quick reference to the syllabus or assignment sheet will answer their questions or reduce their concern.
Gary
I think it is just as important to be very clear with all students in the class that it is, as you mentioned, impossible to accommodate everyone's needs. I think it's important to note that you will make every effort to address as many expectations (needs) as possible to make the learning experience the best it can be for all in the class. I would be concerned that some if not many may interpret it as: "I told you "x" and "y" . . . why am I not getting either?"
Jeff
Hi Guy,
This has been my experience as well. It is exciting to see the growth that both groups experience during the course.
Gary
I try use age/life experience differences to my advantage. If I can get both groups learning from each other it makes them more involved and hopefully my job easier. An example would be a lot of the older students are not as computer "savy" as my younger ones so if I can pair them up it is a win-win situation for both. The younger one learns some real world experience from the older & the older one learns some new computer skills1
Hi Jennifer,
Great attitude. I can tell you enjoy your students and teaching. You are making a difference in the lives of your students each time you step into the classroom.
Gary
I believe that every person has different ideas and needs. They will always have different perspectives. I think the key is, how we address each individual. It is always going to be a challange for me. It' part of what drives me to teach.
Hi Allan,
You are sending a very clear message of caring with the method you are using. By having them list their course expectations and their learning preferences you are showing that you are willing to listen and learn from their input. This all combines into a positive learning environment for the students.
Gary
Hi Maria,
Look for how the concerns are voiced and in what context. Are the complaints from older students more about the platform and moving through the course site or about content? From the younger students is it more about content rather than technology? Once you find that out or if you know it already you can create support strategies that will meet the needs of both groups. You can create learning groups composed of individuals from both groups so there can be exchange of ideas and skills between these groups. This will help develop respect for both groups.
The key is to know the exact complaint if possible and then you can develop strategies for removing it.
Gary
I think that understanding the expectations of the students who are tasking the course is the first step to resolving problems that arise later. When I have a diverse age group I usually start the course by asking the students to write a short piece on their expectations in the course, what they think is their best learning and study method, and what type of testing they find most comfortable. It is not possible to accomodate everyone, but this does me give intial insight into their expectations etc. It also demonstrates that I am interested in learning more about my students.
