I've found that simulations can also work well. These constitute plans where students work in groups to solve problems based on "real-life" situations, then coming back together as a class to make comparisons and contrasts
David,
and as we adapt our styles we also demonstrate a willingness to help these students in their efforts & they are more likely to seek our help.
Ryan Meers, Ph.D.
Using a number of different teaching methods in the classroom will allow you to meet the needs of all generations. Once you know your audience, you can better deliver your message through the way our audience is most receptive.
Karen,
you are right about the volume of information & their reluctance to read it all. To a certain extent, that ball may have to be placed in their court.
Ryan Meers, Ph.D.
Victor ,
and this also helps demonstrate to Gen Y learners that there are multiple forms of "technology" that can be used for value & to our advantage.
Ryan Meers, Ph.D.
I know that as a baby boomer I have a different mind set than the Generation Y students I teach. I am trying to get away from straight lecture format to more interaction. They do learn more when we have class discussions about cases for example. It is just hard to get through all the material that way and I don't find they can be relied upon to read their texts on their own.
I believe by using the white board, students see a different way of learning. Using various colors help to illustrate the information better.
Vicki,
and we know that by hitting on the different styles we stand a greater chance of reaching more of our students.
Ryan Meers, Ph.D.
By knowing the different characteristics of each generation of learners, instructors are better able to determine which method of instructional deliver works best for each student. By keeping the learning process personal, the students will get more out of each lesson and be more engaged in the learning process.
James,
yes, the attitude of viewing students as customers is a great concept as we will be more open to truly meeting their needs.
Ryan Meers, Ph.D.
Since I teach marketing, it is important to know the needs of your customers and the students are our customers. While they are different from a traditional customer of a grocery store, we still have to cater to their needs or they will seek another school that will. I enjoy having representatives from all generations in the classroom. They provide a challenge, but when it works, it is quite rewarding.
It is valuable to know the different generations of learners because you can't just rely on one technique. You are better able to incorporate many different activities and not put too much emphasis on one particular method such as straight lecture.
IN MY DEALING WITH STUDENTS FROM EACH OF THESE VARIOUS GENERATIONS IT IS MOST HELPFUL TO UNDERSTAND THE VARIOUS LEARNING STYLES SO I CAN MOLD MY PRESENTATIONS IN SUCH WAYS AS TO BE ABLE TO REACH ALL INVOLVED...PAUL T. ROUGEMONT
Different generations have certain learning preferences, learning styles and methods. We identify our own preferred style and method as well as those most reflective of the generation that we are teaching.
Through this awareness we have the ability to adapt to those of the Gen Y generation.
jennifer,
this is very true & we can't assume that just because someone is taking an online class that they are tech savvy.
Ryan Meers, Ph.D.
I agree with Rosemary; it is important, especially in distance/online learning to use a variety of techniques because there is often a mix of generations. Social media is a big plus for GenYers.
Marilyn ,
this is very true & the more we know about this area, the more successful we will be in reaching our students.
Ryan Meers, Ph.D.
Understanding the backround of the students helps you understand and taylor learning for success. I helps with the direction of teaching methods and veiw behaviors in a different more positve light.
Richard,
yes, while we teach classes, we really teach individuals & we need to try to reach them in the most effective way possible.
Ryan Meers, Ph.D.
The value is to connect with as many students as possible in a given group. No one style of teaching is suited for the many different styles of learning represented in a classroom. Knowing these characteristics can help you adapt to the needs of a diverse group of students.
