Week 2: "Language" and perspectives

I find it interesting that today's learners only view technology as what is new.  From my perspective, it's all technology:  email, texting, IM's etc, it does not matter how new it is.  The Net Gen views these means of "communicating and doing" as just a way of life, it is basic and standard to their functioning.  Furthermore they are compelled to keep trying the newest invention.  Perhaps I am not compelled to try the next greatest thing because I am "out of the technology loop".  The Educause readings this week discussed college learners and their preferences.  Suprisingly, my generation prefers blended and online courses, where as the Net Gen learners who are so comfortable with technology do not.  After further reading, I now understand what that is.  When I reflect on my own education adventure, the convenience of a blended or on line course sounds great.  Although I have not had a blended course at this stage of my learning adventure, the thought of taking one seems convenient and wonderful to me.  I commute roughly 45 minutes (one way) to class, I have 3 children, 2 of which are involved in multiple activities, my youngest is still at home.  The logistics of taking a class from my home are great.  These are characteristics of my generation of learners.  However, I enjoy hearing what my classmates have to say, I like the face to face interaction with them and my professor, which is a characteristic of Net Gen learners.  Perhaps because  of my learning style and my current job (stay at home parent), I really enjoy the adult interaction and conversation.  I am social,  but not as socially connected as I believe the Net Gen is, according to the Educause readings.  I cannot process information with tv noise or music playing, nor could I stay engaged if I were opening up message window etc, also a characteristic of a Net Gen learner.   This ability to multitask like a Net Gener would serve me well.  Furthermore, my learning style is not through trial and error or tinkering, like that of a Net Gen learner.  I have more of a rule-based approach, and I most always read directions.