Technology in Higher Education: Generations DividedKerry Foxx, Cynthia Strowbridge, Mike Bowers, Mawine DiggsClemson University
Overview: Challenges and Opportunities
Challenge: The Generational Disconnect
Challenge: Technological Dependency
Opportunity: WebinarsOpportunity: BlackboardOpportunity: Our Program Proposal
20% of current students began using computers between the ages of 5 and 8
97% of current students own cell phones; 67% do not have land lines
>63% current students read blogs compared with 27% of “adults”
020406080
NetGen Gen Xers Boomers
IM
Internet Use
Broadband Home
The Net Perspective
The Student Affairs P.O.V
41-74% of S.A. professionals consider cell phones important to job
0-40% of S.A. professionals consider blogs/discussion boards and other online media important to job
0-40% of S.A. professionals consider instant messaging important to job
41-74% of S.A. professionals consider Blackboard important to job
The Generational Disconnect can be defined as a lack of appreciation for the various forms of technology used or not used from one generation to the next. This disconnect translates into ineffective communication between and among the different generations.
The interNet
Psychological dependence on internet
Positive & Negative effects on academics
16.3 hours/wk on instant messenger62% of students study no more than
7 hours/wkNetGen students spend much more time communicating via IM than doing even the minimum recommended amount of school work. The internet provides access to a great amount of resources and can also be a distraction if students are not disciplined.
Webinars
What is a webinar? Presentation streamed via the internet
Becoming more popular in student affairs ACPA, NASPA, ASJA all use them
Broad range of topics covered Diversity, legal issues, risk management
Webinars: Advantages
People can participate from anywhere As long as computer is present
Usually cost-effective If cost is shared between offices
Information easily accessible Viewers can click links and view
documents
Webinars: Disadvantages
Standard technology issues Servers go down, computers crash
Not always cheap Can cost several-hundred dollars
Can be uncomfortable for some Especially when staring at small screen
Limited interaction among participants
Webinars: Outlook
Several issues facing higher education Rising transportation costs Constant budget cuts
Can be good alternative to conferences People can still get information while
saving moneyAs budget restraints are becoming more common, Webinars are becoming an alternative for Student Affairs professionals as they offer important information at a lower cost than attending conferences and workshops. They provide valuable opportunities for pre NetGen educators to find meaningful uses for the internet connecting them to their NetGen counteparts.
Blackboard
Blackboard is an e-Education platform designed to facilitate educational innovations by connecting people and technology
Blackboard is used by, organizations, communities, departments and campuses
Blackboard: Advantages
By using blackboard educators are able to: post memos department has sections within the system for
announcements forms and form submission room schedules course materials external links threaded discussions
Educators and students can access information on or off campus
Instant gratification for NetGen students Can increase student:educator interaction
Blackboard: Disadvantages
Not always user friendly Can be confusing due to the amount of
optionsStandard technology issues
Servers go down, computers crashDifficult to grasp if not technology
savvy Generations that did not grow up with
technology may become frustrated because they have no concept of “shared space”
Blackboard: Outlook
Blackboard is helping education leaders enhance every aspect of learning, academic life and the student experience
Universities are growing ever dependent on blackboard Professional need to become proficient
in order to keep up with their studentsBlackboard can be easily accessed and information can be easily shared, found, and updated. This accessibility provides the instant gratification expected by the NetGen, and it gives educators an opportunity to connect with students if embraced and used properly.
The Overview
Dynamic semester long staff development program Monthly presentations at division-wide
meeting Interactive demonstrationsCollaboration with IT Staff, Young
Professionals, and NetGen students
The Learning
Participants will demonstrate knowledge of various forms of technology
Participants will develop skills to effectively integrate technology into interactions with NetGen students
The Topics
Intro to the Net Generati
on
Collaboration Media• Blackb
oard• Webin
ars
Communication Media• IM• Email
Social Networking
• Facebook• MySpace
Balancing Innovation with Tradition
Workshops are designed to introduce participants to programs used to engage the NetGeneration as well as programs commonly used by the NegGeneration. Each workshop will challenge educators to think critically about the methods they use or do not use to engage the NetGen population.
Participants will get a snapshot of trends and issues associated with the NetGen and their interactions with other generations
Participants will discuss effectively integrating technology while maintaining personal contact
The SummaryTechnological barrier exists between
generations Institutions are moving more
services to the Internet, forcing professionals to adapt
Advancements can meet needs of professionals and connect with NetGen studentsAdvancements in technology are forcing older
generations to become more technologically savvy bridging the communication gap with the current generation of students while providing new and innovative ways to collaborate. The challenge for educators is to intentionally and purposefully integrate technology while maintaining the traditional and necessary educator:student interaction. Appropriate, intentional, and sustained training is required to meet this challenge.
References
Junco, R. & Mastrodicasa, J. (2007). Connecting to the net.generation. NASPA.
Kleinglass, N. (2005). Who is driving the changing landscape in student affairs? New Directions for Student Services, 112, 25-38.
Web Conferencing. Retrieved February 10, 2008, from http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Web_conferencing.
Cheung, O., & Patrick, S. (2007). E-reserve in blackboard: Chalk it up to collaboration. Journal of Interlibrary Loan, Document Delivery & Electronic Reserves, 17(3), 129-143.
Falvo, D. A., & Johnson, B. F. (2007). The use of learning management systems in the united states. TechTrends: Linking Research & Practice to Improve Learning, 51(2), 40-45.
Using blackboard as an intradepartmental communication tool.(2005). Academic Leader, 21(9), 5-7.