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

The Generational Disconnect

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.

Technological Dependency

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.

Opportunity for AdvancementWebinars

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.

Opportunity for AdvancementBlackboard

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.

Our Program ProposalBridging the Gap

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 Net ConnectionBringing it together

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.