I work with various age groups, Baby boomers, Generation X,
and Millennials. The observation that I have made with the Baby boomer
population is that they are slower to learn technology, are not trusting with
the use of it, don’t have the patience to research the information, do the
reading required, and easily get frustrated as a result of that, they rather do
things the traditional way such as writing letters verses emails, paying bills
through traditional mail verse paying online and the list goes on, however the Baby
boomers that do embrace technology, it is very limited how they used it. I found that the Generation X population
attitude is more embracing of technology than baby boomers. Technology was becoming
more wide steam, affordable and readily available and they were able to incorporate
it into their lives which required a behavioral change to do so. However technology
was not required for Generation X to use in their daily lives it was more of an
option to use it if desired. Generation X are somewhat in the middle they can
go either way when it comes to changing their behavior with integrating
technology into their daily lives. The observation that I have made with the
Millennial generation is technology has become a normal part of their everyday
life and they rely more on the use of technology to get things done in some
instances in the absence of technology it has become harder for them to adjust
their behavior to doing things the traditional way and some basic skill set
which requires critical thinking skills may not be present which makes it more
difficult to adjust to the change.
There is some truth to the readings and I think that the
transition is more obvious between the Baby boomer generation and the
Millennial generation. I feel that the baby boomer generation relies more on
their critical thinking skills and the Millennial generation rely more on
technological skills. There are advantages to both. I think there need to be a
middle ground teaching the importance of how things are done traditionally using
critical thinking skills as well as integrating technology to enhance critical
thinking skills.
Hi Vicky,
ReplyDeleteI have worked with a range of generational learners. I agree with your observations between Baby Boomers and Millennial generation in that the Millennial group are more comfortable using technology. However, I think it also depends on the individual learner as well. I had one exceptional student (age 86) she wanted to learn everything she could about using the computer. She was determined to understand and embrace technology. She learned how to use the Internet to purchase airline tickets, e-mail, use Microsoft Office, and could troubleshoot her printer. Very sharp woman. It it all depends on the learner and if they can make the connections of how the technology will help them reach their goals.
Hello Judith
DeleteI agree with you that it depends on the individual learner however I do find that some individuals both older and younger will attempt something new (technology or traditional) in some instances not all after a while they will revert back to what they are comfortable with.
One thing worth focusing on that is not necessarily related to generations (although ed psych would play into the crystallization of beliefs) is the growth vs. fixed mindset debate, and how that plays into the differences you both describe!
ReplyDeleteI really like the point you made at the very end..."I think there needs to be a middle ground teaching the importance of how things are done traditionally using critical thinking skills as well as integrating technology to enhance critical thinking skills."
ReplyDeleteI think that is the very basis for being an effective teacher. You are right, there has to be a middle ground. For instance, I have some students that love to read from a tablet, some listen to a playaway and follow along with the book, and many students still like having a book in their hand. Keeping each students learning styles in mind, and knowing that there is a balance between technology and more traditional approaches helps all students learn to the best of their ability.
I completely agree with DManganello as well as with you stating there needs to be a middle ground. I think what Siko mentioned about growth vs. fixed mindsets is exactly how the generations are. I know some of my colleagues who won't take the time to become tech savy and rather spend time doing things the way they've always have. Then you have myself a Millennial who comes in and completes the same task, using technology in a fraction of the time it took. I see this shift especially taking place in corporate America, especially in companies like Quicken Loans. When will these mindsets merge or meet a middle ground as you stated to better benefit our students learning styles as a whole.
ReplyDeleteThen, the question becomes, "Can we teach/facilitate a growth mindset?" How can we be sure it sticks? And what role should technology play in that?
ReplyDeleteI do believe that we can teach/facilitate a growth mindset from examples and demonstration. I think the way we can make it stick is by repetition, real life and relevant application. Technology can be a creative way that motivates, and engage students.
ReplyDelete