THING 3

I watched and read with earnest interest the differences between the 20th and 21st Century learners.  For me, the biggest change is technology. 

I graduated in the early 80's and learned to type on a manual typewriter.  As a senior, I remember taking a data processsing class where there were 8-10 computers that used giant floppy disks.  At my first job, if I needed extra copies of a letter I had to use carbon paper.  I always tell my students how thankful I am to have been born in an era without technology because I appreciate where we are today.

For this generation of students, they are used to having instant information and multitasking.  That wasn't the case for me in school.  I learned how to figure out information on my own from memorizing multiplication tables to writing out long division problems; conducting research for a paper by going to the library and using a card catalog to find books to read about my topic; and I played outside with my friends, talked with them on the phone for hours; and, wrote letters to people to stay in touch.  Guess what?  I grew up to be an independent thinker, who colloborates with others, and uses critical thinking skills on a daily basis.

All of that being said, I appreciate the use of technology in the classroom and in my personal life.  It makes almost everything easier, faster, and more efficient - when it works.  For the past week, my school and the homes in the area have been without power and I've been stymied. My thoughts have ranged from:  "I could send my students a note and tell them if they were bored to get onto their online working papers," "I'd could start working on my taxes," "I'll check my email for updates." I couldn't do any of those things because the information that I needed was tied to the server that was down because of no power.  I was stuck - and that's my concern for this generation. 

This generation is lacking the tools that I was taught growing up to function without the aid of technology.  They are unable to complete simple math without the use of a programmed calculator.  Their research is "Googling" the information and grabbing the first link that appears.  Their writing skills are horrible because they spell using their "text speak." 

This year for the first time,  my Accounting working papers are online for the students (instead of a consumable workbook).  I thought that this was going to be a great tool for everyone because a) it was technology and the students would love it (aka increased numbers in classes); b) the students would receive instant feedback; c) it would do my grading for me.  What I've found is that a) the 2nd and 3rd year students hate it; b) the students misuse the technology by finding out where the numbers should go instead of using critical thinking skills to figure out the what, where, and why; c) I still have to go back and review the grading done by the software.  Most importantly, I've found that the students are lacking the foundational skills/knowledge necessary to be successful in Accounting.  They've manipulated the technology and software to their detriment.

I think as educators it's important that we provide students with both independent thinking skills and then how to use technology to make things easier and more efficent.  We are doing a great disservice to students by not providing them with the necessary tools to function without technology.