So, how did Gen Y get this way?
We all understand that technology has had a huge impact on Gen Y's learning style. What are the other factors that lead to some of the more difficult generational differences and what are the sources? I believe understanding Gen Y's development is key to teaching them effectively.
Kim,
very good, you need to make the decisions that are appropriate for you & your students.
Ryan Meers, Ph.D.
Goggle is fun; however is the information correct or a biased statements. Technology is a good source to expanded your knowledge in certain area. Application never change they are improved thru new technology. But understanding history is very helpful also.
I understand more about where their learning styles differ, but should we always be catering to these, what I see as, deficiencies. Just because this group has a short attention span, I should encourage that behavior by having shorter lectures, homework assignments, etc. I don't believe that is what will actually help them in the long run, at least not in my profession of massage therapy. You have to be able to focus on your client for the entire duration of the massage. I think I should be encouraging better behaviors and practices instead of reinforcing non-productive ones.
everyone is a google search away from being a genius!
Gen Y is this way because we as the adults have allowed them to be this way. More and more of these kids are coming from divorced homes and often times parents overcompensate for one parent being absent. We tend to reward them with "things" even if the behavior should not be rewarded thus this attitude of entitlement that exist among some. With that said, I tend to have a very structured learning environment. I set high standards and generally my student meet the requirements with little resistance. I try to use technology whenever possible. I also try to keep them interested in learning by allowing them the opportunity teach lessons and work in small groups.
Most of Gen Y have been constantly stimulated their entire lives by technology, and as a result have developed a short attention span--they are itching for phones or internet after a few minutes of "listening"...I have two children that fall into Gen Y...even if reading a novel they are checking phones at the same time. This multi-tasking is a way of life for them, not necessarily disrespectful. I have tried to adapt in the classroom by giving quick breaks in lectures etc as opposed to longer breaks spread out. Also not staying on the same topic too long, even if I have to revisit it later.
I think it is interesting how the students require immediate feedback. I think that this is due to the fact that with their technology they can access anything at anytime and anywhere. It is interesting how many of them ask me "when will you have the grades posted?" I too believe in a fast response time, and always guarantee them a 24-48 hour turn around. Most times I have grades posted within 12 hours, but even then I have students waiting. Once the grades are posted, I get emails within the hour with questions on where points have been deducted. I know that when i was in college in early 2000's, I understood that it would probably be a week until my exams were graded.
I believe that technology has helped in creating the Gen Y generation, because of technology the person who is technology literate does not have to study to learn, all they have to do is Google or ask their phone/computer.
I've found that sectioning the class into small topic or activity driven times seem to help keep their attention. Long lectures don't work, they'll end up drifting off and less is learned. However, if you spread the lecture topic out over the entirety of the class and treat it more as a discussion they become much more involved and interested.
Marie,
there are many sources available, not all are possible to reference in a general ed course of this nature. Additionally, Strauss-Howe are not embraced by all in the academic realm
"Academic response to the theory has been mixed—some applauding Strauss and Howe for their "bold and imaginative thesis," and others criticizing the theory.[5][6] Criticism has focused on the lack of rigorous empirical evidence for their claims,[7] and a perception that aspects of the argument gloss over real differences within the population" For what it's worth.
Ryan Meers, Ph.D.
Actually, according to Strauss-Howe Generational Theory, Gen Yers are much more like the GI Generation than any other (the people born before 1928). It is the predominant generational theory and it states that there are 4 types of generations that cycle over and over. Interestingly, the class materials for this class haven't mentioned Strauss-Howe so far and sometimes seem to contradict their work without further reference.
In my opinion, Gen Yers are similar to Baby Boomers; they are self-centered which creates difficulties with listening, reading, or understanding in the classroom. I believe this stems from being young and preoccupied with technology, however, I also think this stems from all of us not finding a connection that doesn't involve technology. Whether we are their parents, teachers, friends technology is between us for a connection to exist. We need more 'camp fire' moments to connect to one another where technology is not invited because it does not work in the woods or mountains.
How I have learned to overcome this in the classroom is by being spontaneous. Still focused on the assignment or subject at hand but teaching ideas/ thoughts in ways they don't expect. I also ask them alot of questions through the process which I am amazed how willing they are to open up and share where in the end we both end up learning a great deal from one another.
The biggest problem I find is the short attention span. I've found the need to change my lecture structure to keep their attention.
