Deb's+Slide+Bullets+&+Narratives

1-4-11 Just getting the page ready to add bullets and narrative information.

1/6/11 Slide 1 Introduction by Deb


 * Slide 2 Abstract - Full Text on screen, no narrative**

The learning styles and preferential differences between the generations are extremely interesting. They play an important role in understanding and defining what we know and how we learn. Education today is no longer based on absorption, but rather on participation. We are learning through past experiences and shared knowledge to build new knowledge. This presentation will highlight the differences of Generation X and Y to show how they have come together as 21st century educators and learners in order to redefine education and provide NeoMillennials with a world of immersive learning, shared knowledge, and global awareness.


 * Slides 3 & 4 Introduction **


 * GI Generation 1901 -1924
 * Silent Generation 1925 – 1942
 * Baby Boomers 1943 – 1960
 * Generation X 1961 – 1984
 * Generation Y aka Millennial 1984 – 1999
 * NeoMillennial 2000 - Present

In order to understand the concepts of Digital Immigrants and Digital Natives, it is important to review the generations that span the past, because their learning styles and educational progress directly affect the ways in which students of all ages learn in the 21st century.

The Silent generation which spans the years between 1925 and 1942, were somewhat overprotected. Members of this generation were not considered to be deep thinkers and were often defined as withdrawn, cautious, unimaginative, indifferent, and unadventurous. Yet, the next generation, the baby boomers have played a pivotal role in the world. This group redefined what it meant to be a young person by rebelling against their parents and fighting for their belief in individualism and non-conformity. They did not stand by the side-lines, but took control of their world and they remain the center of attention even today. They are highly motivated individuals and are very focused in all areas of their lives. Born between 1943 and 1960, this generation has a direct influence on the technological advancements of the 21st century.

According to a study completed by Microsoft and AARP, baby boomers are savvy consumers who expect technology to be safe and easy to use. By embracing innovative new services and devices, and using them to enhance their lifestyles and values, baby boomers are having a tremendous influence on emerging technologies. Many boomers have returned to school and they are redefining the concept of the adult learners. Their educational involvement as students and as instructors is helping to implement new technologies for students of all ages. The boomer generation is the true starting point for digital immigrants. Their influences have worked their way into the lives and experiences of Generation X, Generation Y, and the NeoMillennials.

Although Generation X is considered to be digital immigrants, they have had some involvement with various technologies like early electronic games. The group is technology capable but they are not considered experts. On the other hand, Generation Y uses technology for socializing and being part of a group. They are so familiar with the technology, they no longer think of it as technology. Devices like cell phones and laptops are simply tools that offer a means for them to communicate and socialize. Even though NeoMillennials use technology much like Generation Y, in reality they are the epitome of multi-taskers. They are true collaborators and believe in working together to make the world a better place.

References Baker College. (2004). Teaching across generations. Baker college: Effective teaching and learning department. Retrieved from []

Brown, C., Haussaman, L, Kemp, C., Lingold, M. C., Stewart, K. (n.d.). What is the generational identity of the GI Generation. Music as a generational totem: A glance at the generational totems of the GI and Silent generations...music.[Slides]. Retrieved from []

Dieterle, E., Dede, C., Schrier, K. (n.d.) Chapter Title: “Neomillennial” Learning Styles Propagated by Wireless Handheld Devices. Retrieved from []

<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Microsoft. (2009). Baby boomers are shaping the future of technology, AARP and Microsoft research shows. Microsoft news center. Retrieved from []

<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Narrative
 * <span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Slide 15 (Conclusion) The Future.... **

Generation X has led the technological advance on education and the younger generations are using technology as though it has always been a part of the world. As the boomers move into their rocking chairs and Generation X begin entering their 50’s and 60’s and become world leaders, what does the future have in store for the Millennials and NeoMillennials?

According to Bill George, Professor of management practice at Harvard Business School, these young adults study harder and more often, engage in more community service, participate in greater numbers of extracurricular activities, and hold a more optimistic outlook on the future than any other generation in modern history. Lauded by parents and pundits alike as beacons of youthful optimism that shine in uncertain economic times, these future leaders are eager for leadership opportunities and thirsty to impress.

Millennials and NeoMillennials are connected...they are logged on every minute of every day using smart phones, Ipads, and laptops. They know where everyone is at any given moment of any given day. They are use to fast-paced information and moving forward at record speeds. However, George believes that this could be detrimental to their future. “In charging ahead, are Millennials failing to take time to focus and reflect? Are they so caught up in keeping up that they will ignore vital real-life lessons that are needed to gain the wisdom...” What does this mean for the Neomillennials?

The decisions made today will reverberate throughout history. In order to build a better tomorrow, educators must provide studies that include the development of leadership skills. These studies must begin at an early age, we can no longer begin teaching leadership in college...we need to start in kindergarten and continue to reinforce these skills throughout the lives of these students. The future is wide open for these generations...it is their turn to steer the world toward a new awareness and acceptance and to a greener globe.

Perhaps the best way to explain where we are heading would be to quote a well-known celebrity. As Buzz Lightyear says: To infinity and beyond...

References

Reference

George, B. (2011). Engaging the millennials. //The Huffington Post//. Retrieved from []

IMDb. (2011). Memorable quotes for Toy Story (1995). Retrieved from []