Educational Technology 2: Bridging the Generation Gap

The older generation often feels there is a generation gap between them and the younger generation. This is apparent in simple things like the manner of dressing, socializing, more intimate relationships like friendship and marrying, etc. Still, some old things are difficult to overcome, as there are still the caste system in India, pre-arranged marriages in China, female circumcision in Africa, and theocratic or religion-rule societies in the Middle East. Even in education, traditional schooling has hardly changed even with the clear evidence of a digital world. Reflect on how some teachers confine their teaching to the board talk-test method.

In the field of education, a huge generation gap also exists and it will continue to widen unless some changes are adopted at the proper time. In peasant third world countries where schools don't have technology facilities, it is understandable that the transition to digital education may take time. But given the rapid emergence of digital technology, at times referred to as information and communication technology (ICT), there is the need to prepare for bridging the digital gap in society. First, we need to understand the potentials of ICT:

The networks of isntantaneous communication is global, overcoming borders between countries and continents.

Much of what elders believe may not be applicable anymore to the new generation, especially along matters of traditional value systems.

Alvin Toffler's book, "Future Shock", shows how the information age has begun to create many cultural changes in the family, societies, governments such as what he calls the throw-away society, modular man, kinetic image, scientific trajectory, fractured family, surfiet of subcults, psychological dimension, etc.

Given the speed and power of ICT for change, growth, innovation, it becomes critical that teachers understand the gap that nay be perceived between them and the new generation of learners.

Since the new generation are expected to face a future professional challenge of a digital world ahead of them, technology supported skills need to be taught in schools today, or else schools will become a white elephant. If schools fail to respond to emergent changes and needs, new learners may lose appreciation of the educational system, and drop out of school, as surveys show an increasing drop-out rate every year.

Here's a video to watch for more knowledge: