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Distant learning and technological innovations:
"A common misconception is that Millennials, since they are digital natives raised with technology, prefer a high level of technology integration in college classes" (Stapleton, J. L., Wen, H. J., Starret, D., and Kilburn, M., 2007). Distant learning enrolments are less embraced by the Millennial generations, who possess unique characteristics of peer interactions and team work orientation compared to the older generations who tap the opportunity of online learning because of their busy schedules, to develop themselves academically. The authors, Wilson, Nicholas, and Stapleton et al, explained that the satisfaction with online learning by various generations, importance of student-faculty interactions using technology, and how communication through technological innovations has helped the Millennials and older generations.
Learning and online enrolment:
According to Stapleton et al., "enrolments in public and private degree granting institutions are expected to increase from 19.1 to 20 million by the year 2014" (p.. Nicholas (2008), submitted that learning has changed over the time from the traditional way of face-face classroom to the using of web-based tools like online journals and downloads. It was stressed that the Millennial students style of learning are different from the older generation, because they grow up with technology. However, Stapleton et al, claimed that many Millennial students prefer traditional class because the online classes does not offer them opportunity of interacting with one another. Again, Wilson (2004), suggested that frequent student-faculty contact can enhance students' motivation, involvement, and intellectual commitment". In conclusion, even though most Millennial students use online resources, they prefer to collaborate with their peers and have technology as a supplement to improve their learning.
Communication and technological innovations:
Maureen Wilson stated that, "most reports on enhancing undergraduate education emphasize the importance of frequent, prompt, and constructive feedback to students" . Instant feedback to students through technological innovations will give them opportunity to do self assessment based on the individual feedback. Nicholas (2008) submitted that the technological enhanced generation preferred common contact method like text message, instant message, and cell phones. The millennial generations see the world as a small global village with the use of technological innovations. Stapleton et al, emphasized that "the online technology environment, interaction, and students self management and motivation are factors that influenced students' perceived satisfaction and learning in online courses". Therefore, technological innovations aided effective communication among student and faculty and thereby increase in distant enrolment in schools.
Student, faculty, and peers interactions:
Maureen Wilson emphasized that frequent students-faculty contact will boost students' motivation and involvement and it will help them to think about their own value and future. Faculty can encourage student to be involved in class activities by giving them group project. Arlene Nicholas stated that socializing for Millennials has become comfortable using camera phones, e-mail, instant messaging, and chatting. Stapleton et al, reiterated that the Millennials are not merely technology-savvy, they approach their lives differently as they integrate digital technologies such as computers, internet, instant messaging, cell phones, iPods, and e-mail seamlessly throughout their daily activities. Technology has encouraged interaction among students and faculty irrespective of their location.
Conclusion:
The older generations are more comfortable with online enrolment than the Millennial generation who prefer to collaborate with their peers. Even though the millennial prefer face to face classroom, they want technology as a supplement to improve their learning. Communication among students and faculty members are more efficient considering the availability of the technological innovations. Frequent interaction among students and faculty members promotes learning and it helps the Millennial generation who want instant feedback from their peers.
References:
Nicholas, A. J. (2008). Preferred learning methods of the millennial generation. The international journal of learning, 15, 27-34. Retrieve from https://digitalcommons.salve.edu
Stapleton, J. L., Wen, H. J., Starrett, D., Kilburn, M. (2007). Generational differences in using online learning systems. Human systems management, 26, 99-109. Retrieve from https://content.iospress.com
Wilson, M. (2004). Teaching, learning, and Millennial students. New Directions for Student Services, 106, 59-71. doi: 10.1002/ss.125