Lesson 4: 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 relationship like friendship and marrying.  In the field of education, a huge generation gap also exists and will continue to widen unless some changes are adopted at the proper time.  

There is a need to prepare for bridging the digital gap in society and to do this we need to understand the potentials of ICT:

·                    -    The new network of instantaneous communication is global

·                    -      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 may cultural changes 

                    in the family, society, modular man, kinetic image, scientific trajectory, fractured family, surfeit of sub cults, 

                    psychological dimensions and etc.

                 Given the speed and power of ICT for change, growth, innovation, it becomes critical that teachers understand the gap that maybe perceived between them and the new generation of learners. As sophisticated technology advances at a dizzying pace, the complacency of educators to stick to traditional education systems and approaches become futile, if not retrogressive. Since the new generation is 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.

Reflection:

    The gap of old generation and new generation is increasing because of the rapid pace of technological advancement in education. Schools are responding to this problem by teaching new supported-skills in ICT to the learners and teachers.

Application:

   We must open our mind that we new generations are the bridge of understanding the use of modern technologies. Nowadays, in order to make things easier, efficient and effective, updated technologies are very essential.