Josh,
Yes, when we understand where the students are coming from, we can move them forward in a better direction toward the learning outcomes. Thanks!
The generations have different experience packages depending upon the technology that was available when they were "growing up". It is the way it is. Since we have a mixture of all age groups in our courses, it is necessary to provide an environment in which all age groups can be motivated and succeed. Recognition of the different characteristics of the various age groups is a good place to start when trying to build a great online course.
I think it is important so that proper, meaningful and helpful communication can be established between the instructor and the student. To help someone, I think it is vital to try and understand where they are coming from. When you understand them better then you can work with them better. Or you can find ways to reach out to them in a more effective manner.
As it talks about in the materials for this course, the generations all have varying learning and communication techniques. To better serve all of them, it is important to first understand them.
LaBoore,
How we deliver the content and provide communication to various students/generations is something important to think about. Thanks!
LaBoore and Mike,
Clear articulation no matter how they do it, is the key. We all are on the same page I think about helping student improve their communication and writing. Thanks!
James,
Right on! They not only come with different goals, but various experience and life skills that they can share with others. Thanks for your input.
Hi All,
It is important because different generations are coming to online learning with varied goals. They also have varied degrees of knowledge when it comes to technology. Millennials are far less likely to fear or be intimidated in an online class environment. Baby boomers remember a time before so much emphasis was placed online. The nuances of online communication and operating in an online environment may escape them until it is full explained and emphasized.
I believe this is another example of how we must adapt to students. Their learning will be more effective if they feel understood in their challenges and struggles. A little sympathy/empathy can go a long way.
James.
Mike, I am not in the baby boomer generation. I'm more of the Generation X; however, I recall the diagram sentences and the over emphasis on proper english. It was a double dose of english for me while learning a foreign language. I still stress to students how important it is to clearly articulate their writing, especially if they are in business.
Understanding the different generations will help you determine which type of medium you will use to convey your message so that your audience will be receptive to it.
Katrina,
But many times we can tell how old our students are when we ask about experiences they've had or ask them to give examples of something that they've done in their lives that relate to the content. But, it's still a challenge.
Katrina,
It is interesting how things are done so differently than when I was in elementary school. Of course, we only had horses to draw our carriage to school! Ha! Just kidding! ;-)
Tomi,
I try to stick with common language and not use "new terms" or "slang words" to make my communication more clear. Thanks for your input.
Tomi,
Breaking down concepts in the clear, concise chunks can help with lingo issues. Making the content clear is the goal. Thanks!
Katrina,
Many things affect how we learn and communicate. They can include our experiences, our age, our culture, etc. That is why we strive to continue to get to know our students. Thanks!
Tomi,
Students' comfort level with technology is very important. The more we understand where our students are coming from, the better. Thanks!
Troy,
We all have our own expectations, even as instructors. So, you know your students do too. As we accept and learn more about our students, we can help them move forward. Thanks!
Chander,
Right on. We do want to have a supportive environment through an interactive course. Keep the communication flowing. Thanks!
Wayne ,
You are right on target. We do have to help students understand that we're there to help them through the learning process and facilitate their learning, but they have to "pull their weight" too. Keep communicating and working with all students. Thanks!
ROBERT,
We all communicate differently and have different learning personalities. It's good to think about the generations while you are building the community of learners. Thanks!
Of course, we do not know what the ages of our students are. So, we have to just pretty much make sure that our communications are suitable for all. On the other hand, there is no "one size fits all" so this can be a challenge.
