Generational differences may be a good thing
I've found in the classroom at the more experiences others bring to the classroom, the better off students are in the learning process. Taping into the generational differences and understanding them can bring a variety of responses and insight that can enrich the learning process for students.
Roberto,
Getting students to share their knowledge and experience helps students see relevance many times in the content and learn more. Keep encouraging them to share.
Dr. Tena B. Crews
I agree. It's great to have multiple generations in your classroom. They can mentor to each other and since it's online, when one person has an idea or statement, their is no interruption. I have noticed this being effective when we talk about resume and the interview process. The baby boomers can offer plenty of tips from grooming and how to do a proper handshake with eye contact.
Ngozi-ka,
Good point. There may be a particular assignment/project in which those with more experience can help those with little experience. Again, we can all learn from each other. Thanks!
Hi,
I completely agree that having a wide range of ages in the class benefits everyone. Some of my very best students are older students returning to school. They are extremely concientious and not very confident, yet make wonderful role models for the younger students.
Eleanor,
We do learn from each other. Use your students' knowledge and talents to help everyone learn. That's a good strategy. Thanks!
Roberto,
I think that having the perspective of more than one generation is a good thing also. In the old days when college students were generally in their late teens or early twenties, the only other perspective was the professor. Now learning also comes from others who have experienced life/careers in a real way.
Frances
Frances and Roberto,
Thanks for continuing the conversation. We continue to learn more about our students and instructional strategies as we do that. Thanks for your input.
