Generation X
Since Generation X are loners and work well alone, they manage themselves and the online environment for learning. Having them in roles of leadership in the classroom may be a good way to get them more engaged and add more value to the learning experience. Is this being intrusive in the student learning process?
Monique
Aundrea,
Thanks for sharing the information about yourself and helping us further understand this topic. Nice job.
I do not believe this method causes an intrusion in the student learning process. I am a Generation Xer, and I understand the need to manage self and not feel as if my time is wasted. In light of this trait among Generation Xers, it seems that placing them in a leadership role will accomplish two goals: (1) provide a level of responsibility to become actively involved because of the assignment given by the instructor, and (2) provide a outlet for the Generation Xer to become involved in what is time well spent because the ability to have a great level input in the class. Once the Generation Xer is placed in this position, most will become involved and mostly likely perform well (if not better) in the class.
Maureen,
"Election" may have been two strong of a word. You can assign a leader or the group can simply agree on who will be the leader Then, if they work in groups again, they will have to choose another leader or one will be appointed.
Maureen,
Glad this module made you think if nothing else. ;-) A lot of times I simply post a discussion board question and ask how many years of experience they have and that tells you a lot about their age. I have also given a short "freebie" quiz at the beginning of class asking in which generation they "fall." All good info.
How do you do an election? I do not have a threaded discussion. Please help me.
My eyes are now open to something I wasn't before. The generations all being in a class. I should have known as I was 56-58 years old the last time and probably the oldest in the class.
I never examined the generational difference but will now examine it.
How do I tell which is which in class? How do you find out which generation?
Zac,
Yes, I think the election of a group leader and facilitator are important. Thanks for sharing.
I see where you're coming from. I teach a few group project classes online and I think you have a good point about gen-x'ers being loners. In a situation where I need to elect a group leader, I will often encourage someone who doesn't necessarily want the job (most of the time it's a gen-x'er). I find this helps bring them out of their shell.
Keith,
Ah - now you can better understand your students as well. The more we understand ourselves, the more we can branch out to others. Thanks!
I am a Generation X person myself and I fit the mode. I don't like to do things that I am not comfortable doing. I prefer learning in the way I like. I can see the point of giving students variety. However, I don't like it when I am forced to do something and I don't think they will either. There is always someone who wants to be the leader so why make someone do it that does not want to be.
Sarah,
Ah - the need to communicate is what we all need. Working toward meaningful communication for all involved is a great thing. Thanks!
I teach an introductory course that includes four weeks of "interpersonal communication." Because of the progress I see and the comments I get on the "end-of-course" evaluations, I am convinced that all the generations want to communicate more effectively, but they haven't had the opportunity or need to do so. Some may have had negative experiences. My students do learn about each other and how to better work together, always remembering that careful, honest, clear communication is key. Because my students will eventually work in healthcare, anything I do to help them improve their communication skills will make them better professionals. This takes time and effort, but is worth it!
Lisa,
Wow! You are doing a lot. You are also, keep in mind, learning a lot as well. Your experience being an online student and instructor will benefit you in the future. Make sure you are aware of what is required in the synchronous online environment. There may be participation points attached to your attendance and engagement. Keep reminding yourself that you want to meet the requirements!
The Gen X categorization is difficult to escape as an instructor turned student. I am not only an instructor, but taking doctoral classes (first time back in the "classroom" since 2001). That being said, I am also taking my first synchronous online course and I'm terrified. I love taking courses like this one where I can work at my own pace and do the work (leave me alone and give me deadlines). I'm fearful of the synchronous environment online learning. Any tips for those of us Gen Xers who are used to working alone online but are now forced to work in a full classroom online?
Jenn and Chris,
Thanks for continuing the conversation. Each generation has challenges and we have to work as online instructors to minimize them or help students get over that "challenge wall." Thanks!
Chris, I feel the same as a Gen Xers. In fact, I struggle with the busy work that my institution requires so I can keep teaching. Furthermore, I'm a visual person and have very little patience for long in person meetings that seem to go off topic. Test my knowledge and get on with it. I want a highlight reel.
As an instructor having multiple generations in the classroom, I think the biggest challenge is make sure you teach towards the specific student not towards your specific preference in learning and teaching.
Jenn
Lyn,
Don't you love it when the students step up? It's so nice to have peer leaders helping other students. Thanks for your input.
Chris,
Glad you found the assessment "dead on." ;-) These are generalizations about the generations, but most fit. Of course, I'm one of those "borderline" people kind of between two generations and I have a split personality! Ha! ;-0 The key is that we get to know our students and work to help them achieve the learning objectives as they need to. Thanks!
Many Gen X-ers do a wonderful job when assigned a leader position during group assignments. Most are willing to act as a leader while completing their own tasks.
Even when they have not been selected as the leader of a group by the instructor, I have seen many who offer guidance to those students who may be struggling.
