GENERATIONAL LEARNING STYLES - Julie Coates, the author of a new book on
the subject of "Generational Learning Styles," offers these tips on reaching people in
different generations.
1. BOOMERS IN THE CLASSROOM - Boomers are interactive and nonauthoritarian,
have authority issues, respond well to traditional learning settings that include interaction,
ice-breakers and small group discussions are effective - but not role-playing.

2. GEN X IN THE CLASSROOM - Gen Xers are very self-directed, are non-
traditional in terms of time and space (they're focused on getting the job done),
not much for ceremony, like having fun, learn best by doing, find visual stimulation
important.

3. LEARNING OPIATES HELP MOTIVATION - Eric Jensen, author of
"Teaching with the Brain in Mind," says that the brain contributes to student
motivation in learning and notes that the brain generates its own reward when
learning and achievement occur. The brain produces opiates which are quite
pleasant, and thus success produces self-reward, which in turn motivates the
student to repeat the experience.

4. STRESS HINDERS LEARNING - Stress, including verbal and nonverbal
warnings from teachers, inhibits learning. Stress focuses a student's attention
on reducing the stress threat rather than on learning new information. Stress
also inhibits neuron growth, further preventing learning.

5. SHORTER ATTENTION SPAN - There are certainly generational
differences in how people like to see information presented, says Coates,
and short and sweet is definitely the preferred method of young people. More
interaction increases attention. Our brains, which are wired to seek novelty
and contrast, become bored with low contrast activities (like lectures). The
brain is more engaged with high contrast activities, such as interactive media
and interaction in collaborative groups (one reason that online learning has
great promise for younger generations of learners.)

For more information go to: http://www.teachingf2f.org (E-LERN Faculty
Newsletter, 6 Apr 03)