Tena Crews

Patricia,

Thanks for your input. You are right in that the work ethic and needs may vary greatly. the more we know about our students, the better prepared we can do.

Thanks for a great list of things to think about.

patricia barnett

Generational students require various needs and display different work ethics. Facilitating knowledge requires the instructor’s perspective to identify students’ learning styles, approaches toward study skills, viewpoints of the learning environment, and students’ generational difference

Tena Crews

Doug,

You are so right. We're all different. Creating the environment you have discussed is perfect. And, you are right - easier said than done.

Thanks!

Doug Wyatt

Each generation has different skills, goals, personalities, and understanding of technology. The goal should be to have an environment that will allow all generations to express themselves and communicate with each other and the instructor. Easier said than done!

Tena Crews

William,

You are adding to the conversation about how knowing your students helps you in the classroom whether online or F2F. Providing instruction in a variety of ways helps meet all students needs. Thanks again for your input.

William Yaremchuk

It is important that an instructor is aware of the generational differences. Several of the tools and methods of instruction may need to be altered to adapt to a predominate type, but still not ignoring other types. However, online instructors need to take into account that all the general types of learners need to be addressed in the instruction.

Tena Crews

Edwin,

Thanks for your input. You are so right. Anything you can do to communicate better with students is a plus. Getting to know anyone helps you communicate with them better.

Nice job.

Edwin Hergert

Understanding the different types of generations will enable the instructor to better view the communication problems that exist from the students perspective. Some students who communicate well face to face have difficulties expressing themselves in writing.An example is from my perspective I want the reader to fully understand what it is I am trying to say from what I have written.A prompt reponse to the communication will let the student know whether or not more information is needed or if the student needs help using the communication tools.

Tena Crews

John,

You are right about them having different expectations. Learning more about our students helps us to become better teachers.

Thanks.

John Carter

Because each of the generational groups has a different perspective not only when it comes to the use of technology but also of the world at large. Each generation be they X, Y or baby boomer has different expectations of life and of learning. Understanding that to the best of your ability will help you communicate with individuals from those generations in a more effective manner through technology or even face-to-face.

Tena Crews

Marissa,

You are right. Online instructors do have to assist online students to become successful online, but they need to help them take steps to help themselves. Becoming a facilitator of learning is difficult sometimes. We like to "dump" content on them instead of helping them learn.

Thanks for your input.

MARISSA HAYNES

So the instructor will develop communication guidelines and we must consider these generational differences, because instructors have a big job in assisting students to become successful online learners.

Tena Crews

Nicole,

Good points! Keep up the good work. I like that you said would contact the student personally. Many online instructors don't do this. Nice job.

Natalie Fox

Identifying the different types of generations within the classroom can alleviate most problems when it comes to posting and communication barriers. I have several different generations currently in my on-line classroom. Knowing this lets me understand if “student A” didn’t post, or the post is incorrectly formatted they are most likely a baby boomer, and I can contact them privately to ensure they are catching on technically. If I have “student L” who post using text lingo, I can assume they are a GenY student, and I can make a general announcement in regard to professional writing. Knowing these things can help all students in remaining focused on the classroom content and less on housekeeping issues (and help with my headaches :)).

Tena Crews

Donna,

You are right on. We are all different and have different strengths and weaknesses. It is important to communicate inn various ways to meet the needs of each group.

Thanks.

Donna Collins CHEP

Talk about generation gap! I think each generation has something to offer but I feel the "Boomers" generation may have more hands on experience that could be beneficial to many if they were more technology savy. Each group has it's strengths and weaknesses when it comes to on line communication tools. It is a teaching challenge to the instructor when you have such a mix of generations in classes.

Tena Crews

Sally,

It is good to assess your students' technology knowledge no matter which generation. Thanks again for the information you have provided in this forum

Tena Crews

Nathan,

I like your cause and effect connection. I think you are so right. Thanks for your comments.

Tena Crews

Jennifer,

Glad you enjoyed the module. The information you provided is helpful to others in the course. And, you are right, respect is the key component no matter what generation.

Thanks!

Sally McAllister

Why is it important to understand the role generations play in communication in the online community?

As we become an ever increasing global society, we need to be aware as instructors that technology is really a new tool. Newer generations grew up with technology and are comfortable with its use. Older generations did not have the technology of today. They need more assistance in its use.