i think the best thing to do with the Y gen is to have them work things out for them self.open end question and as much hands on.
Virginia,
these are all great ideas & suggestions for engaging the Gen Y learners in our classes.
Ryan Meers, Ph.D.
Show them how they will apply what they are learning and relevancy to their profession.
Utilize 10 to 15 minute mini-lectures followed by an activity that incorporates the info that was delivered during the lecture period.
Use any talents that the students may have--creating a cooperative learning environment.
Instruction for Gen Y's in many different formats, be a facilitator, make instruction fast paced.
Well-prepared syllabi that cover course objectives, requirements and policies provides structure for Gen Y students.
Reassurance through feedback that is frequent and repeated gives Gen Y students the knowledge that they are on track.
Marsha,
this is a great idea & will help to engage the students in the process so much more.
Ryan Meers, Ph.D.
I try to invite a student or recent graduate who can share relevant information with the students on the processes of setting up an internship. For the next visit I will be asking the current students to formulate 2 - 3 questions they would like to ask the recent graduate pertaining to researching, setting-up and performing an internship.
jennifer,
yes, I like to push on the critical thinking skills as much as possible & incorporate wherever possible.
Ryan Meers, Ph.D.
I agree with you Greg. I also ask a specific question of each student in each discussion area which requires them to use critical thinking skills; otherwise I have found alot of cut & paste without learning the point of the lesson.
Marlene,
this sounds like a great method, particularly the debate idea. This helps develop critical thinking & the ability to listen to another side's views & opinions.
Ryan Meers, Ph.D.
I use an assortment of teaching modalities. Group presentations that incorporate power point,You Tube clips and self-made videos.Conducting debates in which the class is divided into pro and con.Each side is allowed to use their smart phones to gather data to present at the debate.I also give out case studies with questions to complete online.
Diane,
and this can open the door for others to share who may be more reluctant.
Ryan Meers, Ph.D.
I try to ask them questions to make them think outside of the box.....ones that require pulling from more than one resource for the answer. It makes them proud of themselves when they get the answer!
I have students who are engaging in real world activity of learning to come and present to in class students their experiences which seem to have a higher impact on the in class students than me sharing the real world experiences.
I ask questions and definitely discuss the topic according to their experiences. Whatever stimulates and keep them mind to the subject, they like to have their input and be heard.
The question is what are some of the strategies for engaging GYN Y Learners? Engaging GEN Y Learners is a big challenge. Although at present time there is a small introduction to technologies. It is a big challenge to keep them in engaged in their assignments. They really challege the instructor because we are constantly telling them to put away their cell phones and other updated technologies. They are tune out the lectures to use facebook, twitter and what ever social network available. One student left the class to talk to his girlfrient. I know this is the day and age of technology but it is not helping students at all to learn. The bottom line I have not strategies for engaging Gen Y learners. You said it all "they think they know more than the instructors" and get offend when they are told to put away their "toys."
I agree, by one student sharing their experience, other students will learn from it. Group discussions make this an easy way for all to interact.
Lisa ,
this is a great way to engage this generation of learners with the material & to keep them interested.
Ryan Meers, Ph.D.
Creating assignments where they can use the technology to gain specific information on the topic, while ensuring they can use critical thinking to explain what they have learned.
ed,
these are all excellent strategies for engaging these learners in the overall process.
Ryan Meers, Ph.D.
Using their technologies
Get them to understand what is being taught not just memorize
Allow them to participate in the learning model
Teachers should tell stories to demonstrate his/her experiences
Cindy,
this is an excellent strategy as it opens their minds to what they will be learning & prepares them for what's to come & then they do better in reflecting on what they just learned.
Ryan Meers, Ph.D.
