Neer Persaud

Technology & The Generational Gap

I have been teaching in the classroom as an adjunct for 14 years and my one year anniversary for online teaching is in August. Almost on a daily basis I cannot help but compare and contrast the two method of teaching. One of my observation is that there are many educational institution targeting the baby boomers and push them to grasp the use of technology faster than they are equip to. Many of these students are are older and in most cases they are grandparents. In addition, many of these students have never used a computer, and have no idea about the various technologies that are available to assist them in the learning process. They are also fearful of the technology and are having a difficult time getting use to them. So in my instruction, in chats, and in office hours, I often have to explain and encourage them on how the technology can help them. With students that are in their 20's and 30's, I have little instruction to give to them about technology. They just need clarification on what they need to do and where to put the information.