As a member of the boomer generation, I particularly appreciated learning in Module 2, that Gen Yers can multitask effectively! I am definitely one of those instructors who have been frustrated when I see students who appear to NOT be paying attention to my lecture, and admit to having considered it disrespectful. Thank you for opening my eyes!!
There is huge value in knowing the characteristics of different generations of learners. Once you know the different characteristics then you will be able to convey the information to that group or person in a way to where they will better understand and remember it.
The value of knowing the characteristics of different generations of learners is so that, as an instructor, delivering information can conform to the types of learning environment the each generational cohort is comfortable with. Each generation has slightly different perceptions and expectations of the educational process. Older generations, such as the Veterans and Boomers may be comfortable with a more structured environment while members of the Generation Y cohort prefer a more interactive environment and especially like using the latest technologies. If there are different generations that make up a particular class the instructor will need to find the right mix of structure and information delivery methods that work for all members of the class. Class sessions could include a short lecture followed by other activities such as group projects as well as individual assignments. The instructor should always set clear goals and work to foster a team environment.
Timothy,
this is a good point & one I want to stress: millenials think they can multi-task & they "do it" but many studies have shown that they are not as effective as they think they are. The are used to operating this way, but please don't misunderstand me: they need to be redirected to focusing on one thing at a time. Hopefully that makes sense.
Ryan Meers, Ph.D.
The veterans I admire and respect so much; I feel they appreciate structure and discipline, they are strong and united. The boomers share (for the most part) in learning styles, but they will question ideas. Generation X, I felt myself identifying with, they want a very well structured outline for the full term of the class, a great syllabus and leave nothing up to interpretation. The most surprising for me is generation Y students and their ability for multi-tasking, many times in my classes some of my students have told me they were listening to me at the same time they are completing some other task, and I've had my doubts...maybe I should re-evaluate this.
Larry,
glad it was helpful & it really is important to understand the makeup of the class as we prepare & present.
Ryan Meers, Ph.D.
In my mind this better helps me to understand my role as a teacher and who is in my class room.
Credie,
this is so true & also knowing that you have the different learning styles in your class no matter what, you are better equipped to reach all learners.
Ryan Meers, Ph.D.
I believe knowing the characteristics of different generations of learners becomes most valuable to an instructor when a student is having difficulty with a lesson. Understanding these characteristics can allow you to develop a strategy more conducive to that students learning style.
Games do work well with the younger students, but when mixed ages in the class rooms occurs
my older students have a hard time accepting the games and get frustrated.
And thats true, i have 15 students in my class and they all lrean on a different level.
Robbi,
glad the information was useful & I do think it's important that we all strive to understand the differences around us.
Ryan Meers, Ph.D.
Learning all of the characteristics that make each Generation unique is very helpful to an instructor because it helps in planning the lessons and the flow of the day. I truly believe that it is important to set up my lessons to try to fit the needs of every generation. I meticulously plan my lessons to fit each student’s learning style. Both of these tools are very valuable in assuring a successful learning environment.
Knowing these characteristics is going to make you a better instructor. I, myself am of Gen Y and never knew of ways to reach the older generations. It is so useful to understand more about the characteristics of these individuals to be able to better educate them.
This helps to improve your connection to the student and in turn ignite learning.
I think it is important to know different learning styles so you can try to engage more people within the class. For me, I started out as a trainer, training adults, and I was fortunate enough to receive numerous trainings on how to engage the various types of learners. I enjoy trying to incorporate various techniques into the classroom (group activities, mock trials, role plays, and lectures and written assignments) and find the students respond better (all generations) when presented with various options on how to learn.
Billie
Craig,
yes & the different learning styles are present in all generations, but certain generational cohorts are accustomed to learning in certain ways & this is where we can show our adaptability.
Ryan Meers, Ph.D.
Although individuals within specific generations have an equal chance of being any type of personality, the shared, "Mass Experiences," of a Generation can cause an outlook about specific, related events, to have a common theme. Although the individual perception is different it is possible to see how or what that perception stems from due to the student's generation.
Most of my students are Gen Y, but some come from different generations, like myself. It is important to know the characteristics of the different learners so the Instructor can properly prepare for the learning experience.
Chad,
this is a good question & I think one that needs clarifying. The research tells us that when we multitask, we don't really give our full attention to any of the tasks we are working on. However, Gen Yers are comfortable multitasking, meaning they can do it without a second thought. They are not necessarily being productive, but they are very used to having many stimuli at once. Hopefully that clarifies a little.
Ryan Meers, Ph.D.
