Once again, Karl Kapp has graciously agreed to do a webinar for us on Communicating with Today’s Generation. I asked him some questions and here are a few answers.

How do we teach to the younger generation of students or “Digital Natives”?

Create an interactive environment in which the students can create their own understanding of events and concepts by creating their own content that can be viewed by others. For example, ask the studnets to create a newscast on the causes of the Great Depression or one on How to Troubleshoot a computer network. They can then do the research, writing, directing and delivery of the information tht can then be delivered via YouTube or TeacherTube. If an assignment is created with the right rigour and focus, students can learn a lot by preparing content for deliver via a digital media. A balanced classroom can include interactivity, student created content and instructor-provided guidance and information.

If you had to convince someone that your book could help them work with students better in thirty seconds, what would you say?

Wow, only 30 seconds, ok, I would say that the book helps you to understand the perspective of the new generation of learner and understand what they are thinking as they approach learning. Simultaneously, the book provides tools for bridging the learning gap and even helps you understand your kids. (I’ve gotten that comment a lot…people will say…not only did I learn about my students but I have learned something about my kids as well.) I find that comment particularly satisfying. In fact, I often toy with the idea of refocusing the book and doing a rewrite called “Understanding your kids through Gadgets Games and Gizmos.” Also, if you are wondering what to get a colleague for a gift this holiday season, this book is a great gift.

Are you finding faculty to be more accepting of games and technology?

Faculty are faced with the reality of the “gamer generation” every day and so they really understand the differences in learning preferences among the upcoming generation. I find that corporate trainers are a little more reluctant to believe that they have to shift what they are doing to be more accomidating to the new learners. But I think that is slowly changing as well.

This Friday, December 12, is the webinar with Karl Kapp and you may – register here.

Mark Viquesney