Module Components

• Overview
• Assignment

Topics

• Developmental Stages of Learning
• Generational Learners
• Adult Learners
• What is Your Learning Style?
• Right vs. Left Brain
• Multiple Intelligence
• Assessing Learning Styles
• Motivation
• Cultural Differences

Nurs 787 - Theory Teaching and Learning

Module 2: Contexts of Learning and Learner Characteristics

Generational Learners

As an educator, it is important to know about the generational characteristics of learners which may impact the teaching and learning process. Educators are being challenged to create learning environments that are conducive to the learning characteristics of different generations, such as Baby Boomers, Generation X, and Generation Y (also called Millennials).

On the heels of Gen Y comes the next generation of individuals born since 2000. This generation is being referred to as the Net Generation, Next Generation, Gen Z, iGeneration, Gen Tech, and post-Millenials, among others. While their traits and learning personalities are still emerging, we know that they are highly connected, diverse, “digital natives”.

Let’s look at the learning characteristics and best teachings methods for each generation.

Generation	Years	Significant Cultural Events	Learning Characteristics	Best Teaching Methods
Baby Boomers	1946-1964	Civil Rights Act Kennedy Assassination Beginning of Vietnam War	Dependent on educators to give them information Seek a caring environment and respond well to positive feedback Wants to know “what” and “how” before learning “why” in new situation Process oriented	Lecture format Lots of interaction and “talk” time Prefer individual work over group work
Generation X	1965-1980	Vietnam War Atomic Age Cold War Rise of the Arcade & Mass Media	Highly independent Independent problem solvers, with parallel thinking process Can perfect multitasking Technologically literate, concrete thinkers	Computer Courses Self-Directed Modules Audiovisual activities with charts, graphics, photos and cartoons
Generation Y (Millennial)	1981-1999	Technology Boom 9/11 The Iraq War	Self-reliant Technologically advanced Linear thinker with analytical ability Savvy visual media users	Technology is a necessity Learns through trial and error Fun and interactive, i.e. simulations Enjoys being mentored by older generations

Baker College’s Department of Effective Teaching and Learning offers some classroom techniques that work for learners from different generations.

1. Have an “orientation” or icebreaker.  Allow group to learn about one another; whether it’s about their work experiences or hobbies. The group needs time to settle before finding out the group dynamic.
2. Ask Boomers and Generation Xers to share their experiences. Both generations are a great resource for various examples. These professional experiences may help to guide Millennials and Gen Zers entering the professional realm.
3. Encourage participation and discussion between groups. Participation allows the “can be silent” Xers and others to share and explain their opinions.  Additionally, discussion can help learners stimulate creative solutions to questions.
4. Rotate between group and individual activities often. The average adult attention span last about 15-20 minutes; this technique allows for the generations to have their preferred working style during class session. Rotating between various activities and assignments also allows for the use of different learning styles within generations.
5. Find the balance between “mentoring” and “hovering.”  Remember what one generation considers assistance may be considered overbearing to another.  Try to limit opinions until there is a group consensus that outside help is needed.

Here is another look at generational learning, based on the work of generational work expert and pioneer Claire Raines.