Retrieved from https://studentshare.org/education/1701167-generational-diversity
https://studentshare.org/education/1701167-generational-diversity.
Generational Diversity Generational diversity is a current issue in the educational sector. Each generation has their own characteristics that define them. Different generations prefer different ways of communication (Pacansky, 2015). People of a certain generation find comfort in doing things in a particular way. Generations differ in preference and due to this; college educators and lecturers need to know which generation they are dealing with. Learning being a social science becomes smooth once social characteristics of the students are incorporated into the learning/teaching system.
It is difficult to find educators and learners being of a similar generation. Therefore, educators need to learn the preferences of the generation of their students and incorporate into the learning system. Connecting education to the ways of life of students promotes positivity to learning and increases chances of educational success. For example the millennium generation would prefer sending assignments on WhatsApp group as opposed to sending it to their emails. Knowing such behavioral and social characteristics of a generation make them feel represented in the system (Pacansky, 2015).
In my opinion, the K-12 system of educators needs to take note of generational diversity. The teaching methods and learning methods should be streamlined to fit the characteristics of the students’ generation. This will enhance better understanding and a positive attitude towards learning. Educators need to fit in into current generations so as to create bonds between them and the students.Online Course DesignThe effectiveness of online courses is a key issue in the education sector. Online courses are supposed to attain the same results as face-to-face teaching.
To achieve this, some areas require high attention. The educator is required to understand what the learning outcomes should be so that they can come up with the best course design. To come up with the best learning outcomes, all learning materials should be made easily accessible to the learner. Efficient accessibility should be strategic to diversity in that materials are provided through the most appropriate means for a specific student. For example, a student aged 50 would prefer a visiting a library and studying books to read while a 21-year-old student would prefer reading a pdf through their phone.
Therefore, generational diversity should be taken into consideration. Online courses should implement current technologies to ease the process of learning. For example, technologies such as Skype can be used to hold a discussion between a student and a teacher when a need arises.ReferencesPacansky, M. (2015). Chalk to iPod: 21st Century Higher Education, Generational Challenges and Opportunities on Vimeo [Video file]. Retrieved from https://vimeo.com/2853950
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