Robert,
it is interesting. I will tell you that I've had mixed feedback from my students on Prezi. Some have told me that they really don't like it as well as ppt. Just something to consider.
Ryan Meers, Ph.D.
I need to get use to Prezi. I am only familiar with powerpoint though I have seen prezi presentations.
I think it is the "action" involved in all the ways the slides more that keeps them interested - I know I personally like it.
I have found that a combination of story examples and textbook lecture works best, where I use the story to reinforce the idea.
One thing to mention is that there are students that prefer to learn the information from the text and do not have much use for too many stories, so I think the trick is to temper the amount of stories with a substantial amount of text work.
Jason,
this is a good insight into this generation.
Ryan Meers, Ph.D.
Their parents were from the generation of working several jobs at once. They had very little exposure to that type of learning from their parents. They crave it because they grew up with the complete opposite of it.
Sarah,
this really helps them see the application of the course material & transfer theory to practice.
Ryan Meers, Ph.D.
Using many examples of real life experienes is very helpful in getting them excited about learning.
Generation Y students like all generations want the instructor to be relevant, this relevance is sustained through knowledge of course content and experiences emulating or depicting the reality of how it applies to the student's life.
Gen Y students are multi-taskers and like to discover the answers in their own way. Experiential allows them to take a project see what not only work but what doesn't. They can then determine what works best for them or the team.
Because this works well with their technological advances.
They're able to become part of the learning process rather than just receiving. Better retention of information and practical application.
Generation Y has access to an unprecedented amount of information, therfore just delivering information to them is not seen as important. They must have the experience to fully understand and be able to synthesise the information.
Being able to share your experience is more engaging. Students get to hear your real life story which provides insight into the career they are going into, or a lesson that can be taught that you cannot pick up from reading a book.
Because they value the fact that they can share their experience and personal knowledge.
I think Generation Y learners value experiential learning because they need to understand it from their world view. They need to try and incorporate the learning into how practical it is today and how they can use it when they leave the classroom.
Julie,
stories are a great way to engage the learners & help them see the applications.
Ryan Meers, Ph.D.
They like a fun type of learning, it seems to be a way of learning for them. I think they enjoy hearing the stories and it will keep their attention better.
Experientail Learning is practical and hands-on. With so much flat-screened information available to Generation Y students, the ability to utilize and manipulate practical materials is a welcome change.
these student like to know what works and what doesn't by experimentation
Chad,
understanding the why is so crucial to really helping the content come alive & make sense.
Ryan Meers, Ph.D.
