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Intergenerational Learning

Intergenerational Learning. Vickie Cook, Ph.D. University of Illinois at Springfield February 14, 2008. Meeting the challenges…. There are four generations in the classroom today. Each of these groups differ in their attitude, expectations and values about learning and the classroom.

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Intergenerational Learning

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  1. Intergenerational Learning Vickie Cook, Ph.D. University of Illinois at Springfield February 14, 2008

  2. Meeting the challenges… • There are four generations in the classroom today. • Each of these groups differ in their attitude, expectations and values about learning and the classroom.

  3. Who are you… • The Silent Generation: born between 1927-1945 • The Baby Boomers: born between 1946-1964 (including “Jones”) • The "Xers" or Generation X: born between 1965-1984 • The "Nexters“; Millennials; Gen.Y-Next Generation: 1984 >

  4. Find your group & answer …. • In an intergenerational classroom, teaching strategies must change. How will this younger student affect your teaching style? What new strategies will you implement? • In the next 10 - 20 years with the retirement of the Baby Boomers, the Xers and the Yers will be in charge. With the changing of the guard, education will change. What does this mean for the future of your discipline?

  5. Confronting Stereotypes • Listen to the following stereotypical statements. • Can you identify the generation being described?

  6. Interpersonal skills… • The classroom teacher will need to be able to build an effective learning community through the use of: • Technical skills • Conceptual skills • Interpersonal skills

  7. Questions about classroom expectations • Should performance expectations be different for each generational group? • How can each student expect to learn most effectively?

  8. Managing an intergenerational classroom • Look for the similarities: • Everyone wants to feel valued. • Everyone wants to succeed. • Everyone prefers clear communication about what is expected of them.

  9. Managing an intergenerational classroom • Understand that although each of your students may be motivated to perform well, each generational group may approach learning differently and hold different expectations for the learning environment.

  10. Managing an intergenerational classroom • Ask each group to value what others bring. • Develop a "peer" environment. • Educate students in intergenerational learning. • Encourage mentor relationships that are chosen based on willingness and skill level, not age.

  11. RewardsSystems • Silent Generationvalues being acknowledged for what they know as well as what they do. • Baby Boomersfeel valued when you reward them in ways that enhance their future security, i.e., future promotions/raises. • Generation X'svalue the external recognition, i.e., gift certificate, awards ceremony. • The "Nexter" valuesrewards that offer more autonomy and freedom, i.e. flexible classtime hours, working at home (online, hybrid programs).

  12. Work Style • The Silent Generation is interested in working to get the job done, regardless of the personal sacrifice. They are dedicated workers. • The Baby Boomer likes to process, discuss and collaborate on various work projects or concerns. • Generation X is more self-reliant, so they prefer working solo. “Just do it!" is their mantra.

  13. Views about professional and personal development • Baby Boomers flourish in coaching and mentoring situations. • Generation Xer and the Nexter look for opportunities for alternative learning activities such as independent research and online skill-building. • Generation Xers believe two way learning experiences are valuable. Not only will they learn from the instructor, but the instructor should be willing to learn from them, as well. This is a vital component to building a strong relationship.

  14. Attitude about authority figures (the TEACHER) • Silent Generation has unconditional respect for authority. • Generation X has respect for authority, but wants a less formalized relationship with authority figures (first names). • Generation X likes a lot of feedback from the authority person. • The Nexter is not opposed to respecting authority, but questions why it should be automatic.

  15. Special Interests • Baby Boomers look for future security rewards. • Generation X learners are often great at multi-tasking. • The Nexter is amazingly optimistic. “We can do this!” (sometimes detrimentally so)

  16. Components to the Successful Intergenerational Learning Environment • Achieve a greater understanding of individuals. • Acknowledge similarities. • Promote understanding, acceptance & respect • Insist on open communication. • Move from function-based to project-based assignments using the strengths from each group. • Use technology to enhance content and create interest.

  17. Thank you for your participation in this discussion! Vickie Cook University of Illinois at Springfield One University Plaza BRK 389 Springfield, IL 62703 Cook.vickie@uis.edu

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