subject: Meeting the Net Generation in Their Playing Field: Why is This Critical? [print this page] Meeting the Net Generation in Their Playing Field: Why is This Critical?
Meeting the Net Generation in Their Playing Field: Why is This Critical?
Meeting the Needs of the Net Generation is Critical
Adjusting educational approaches to meet Net Generation's learning needs is crucial. One reason isthat multi-modal technology-based communication is a primary communication tool in our culture now (Oblinger, 2006). Another reasonaccording to Oblinger (2006) is, "informational learning is eclipsing formal learning" (p. 24). A third reason is that people are connecting in virtual worlds, and are collaborative and visual (Oblinger, 2006). A final reason is that the present generation of K-20 learners are experiential learners who prefer working collaboratively, and engage in social networking (Oblinger & Oblinger, 2005).
According to Shaffer, Squire, Halverson, and Gee (2005) games are metamorphosing the way people learn because in the gaming environment, people are placed in new social situations that require interacting with others within a technology environment and these new virtual worlds integrate thinking, social interaction, and technology within the context of engaging activities. In an example sited by Shaffer et al (2005), players in a game have the opportunity to problem-solve and engage in critical thinking within the problem set of a political election.
Challenges
One challenge is the financial. As Oblinger and Oblinger (2005) stated, colleges must make huge financial commitments based upon a moving target that is comprised of emerging technologies. Another challenge is not only must libraries, programs, and campus spaces must be revised to align with the needs of the Net Generation and the media the Net Generation engages in, but the entire paradigm of higher education needs to be examined for revision (Oblinger & Oblinger, 2005). A third challenge is the NetGeneration does not embrace text books and reading as the prime source for information and learning. Several prime sources for information and learning exist and include peer-learning, knowledge creation, and self-directed learning, according to Technology across the Generations (n.d.).
What's Your Comfort Level?
Educators have to be comfortable with these challenges or we will become extinct. As stated in Technology across the Generations (n.d.), as an educator, it is imperative that teaching methodology change to reflect the needs and interests of those students with whom I work who are connected constantly via hand-held devices. In my observation, the release of the Apple i-Phone has brought technology connectivity to a new level for the Net Generation and older folks, as well.
Anecdotes
When I ask a thirty-year old the nutritional value of the lunch, he/she's got the stats immediately from an app on the i-Phone; he/she's not reading labels from the food sources.
When I want to keep in touch with extended family members who are less than 15 years old, I do so on Facebook.
When members of my extended family plan holiday events, they are pushing out their Google calendars to me and are sending invitations on e-Invite. If I want to be part of the party, I'd better be comfortable with technology challenges!
References
Oblinger, D. (2006). Educating the net generation. Retrieved September 15, 2010, from Educause.
Oblinger, D. O. (2005). Educating the net generation. Educause .
Shaffer, W., Squire, K., Halverson, R., & Gee, J. P. (2005, June). Video games and the future of learning. WCER Working Paper. No. 2005-4 . Madison, Wisconsin: Wisconsin Center for Education Research.
Technology across the Generations. (2010, September). Retrieved September 19, 2010,
