Taylor, M.L. (2005). In defense of the future. [VitalSource version].
The author of this article begins by explaining that new research has determined that this new generation, the Net Generation, is dumb (Taylor, 2005)! He explains that many other researchers believe the generation is not prepared to really work and their brains have been ruined by “the screen”. Well, the author visits the conclusions made through research; he calls them the 10 Dark Side issues. Let’s check them out!
1. The Dumbest Generation: some may suggest that this generation is dumb due to the amount of time spent on the computer and lack of time spent in the classroom. He reminds us, however, that this generation actually spends less time in front of the TV-zoned out-like their parents. Many of this generation have the TV on for background noise, but do not pay much attention to the actual program. I am guilty as charged! In fact, I have the TV on right now, but I couldn’t tell you what is showing or what is even happening. My brain seems to be handling the multi-noise just fine. He also discusses the effects of video games on the brain. I am not one to agree with any type of video game usage, but he makes some rather interesting points including the fact that gamers have to practice decision making-usually quickly. They also have to practice design skills, organizing information, discovery and strategy development-all qualities needed in the classroom and work place. Not to mention many of the games now are played via the web and takes cooperation and communication. These are traits I have not taken into account at all; when I played video games growing up, these were not the aspects of video games. Finally, the author states,
“That’s why I say this is the story of two generations: the top students are doing fabulously and using the Internet to boost their academic accomplishments, but at the same time, the United States is facing a massive dropout problem, especially among city kids who are black or Hispanic. It’s a scandal. Yet we shouldn’t blame the Internet for this problem. Instead, let’s fix class sizes, alleviate poverty, motivate teachers with better pay, improve childcare, and deal with the factors that directly cause kids to drop out and lose hope. In particular, let’s get laptops and the Web into classrooms so that teachers can be freed to customize a learning experience rather than being forced to remain broadcasters of information. Don’t make the Internet, a global system for communication and the sharing of knowledge, the scapegoat. That is like blaming the library for ignorance” (Generational Issues in Global Education. McGraw-Hill Create p. 121).
I had to post that entire comment from the author because it is SO perfect. In fact, this is exactly what I think and feel. Let's make this technology work for us! Let's make the changing global word become a part of our lives and let it enhance learning. Let's take time to learn what technology can bring to our lessons rather than teaching in the "old ways" that work, but are not in tune with how this generation learns outside the classroom. Why should they be expected to learn one way because that's how the teacher wants them to learn when they spend time elsewhere manipulating. Reading online material can often be at a higher level than they would read in the classroom. In turn, their vocabulary will improve as well as their comprehension and ability to distinguish fact from fiction.
2. Screen Addicted? Loosing Social Skills?: This generation is not losing their social ability like many of us think they are. They are the most social generation yet. So social, they want their friends to know when and what they eat, when and where they sleep, and what time they will start their homework. They are constantly talking and communicating…just not how we communicate and so we think it is strange or uncommunicative. However, they communicate more than we ever did.
3. Are they Giving up their Privacy?: Yes! Net Geners love to communicate as stated above and therefore put it all out there. At times they do not consider the consequences of what will happen in 5-10 years after they post an event in life. They do not think that maybe it will come back to them and potentially hurt them in the future. Or do they care?
4. Are they Coddled? Do they lack Independence?: Many worry that Net Geners lack independence because they are 24 and live at home with their parents. Some might even suggest they are spoiled. However, the author suggests that moving home is a positive decision for many because they are so close to their families. Their baby boomer parents couldn’t wait to get out of the house-for their own freedom. However, this generation has had freedom (due to their ability to search the web) and they feel a sense of home and family. Plus, many of them have huge debt compared to their parents, much of it educational debt.
5. Does the Internet Encourage Youth to Steal? Are they Cheaters?: These are hard questions to answer because they don’t think they are stealing. Many of this generation don’t understand that when they download a song they are stealing. They just do it because that’s how it’s done. They also spend so much more money on concerts and ring tones, that they think they are “covering it” when the do understand what they are doing. The concept I worry more about is plagiarism. The reason this is an issue for me is because many students do not understand how to write information in their own words. They think that if they only write one or two sentences from the website, it is okay. This is a growing problem that teachers need to address while students are young. They cannot just say to students, “Don’t copy off the internet; that is plagiarism.” They need to TEACH them how to use the information-cite the source-and add their own ideas to make the information theirs.
6. Does it Encourage Bullying?: It does not necessarily encourage bullying. Bullies have been around forever! The fact of the matter is that the internet allows for a bigger audience. The other side, it’s proof right there on the internet. Again, something this generation might want to reconsider as it could come back to them later. The concept that the bully needs to develop empathy and the victim a sense of self has not changed over time (Taylor, 2005).
7. Does it Incite Youth Violence?: Studies imply that YES, this could be a problem. A longitudinal study shows evidence that youth who played aggressive video games were in fact more aggressive in the future. This was followed by other studies as well. However, much study still needs to be conducted as these same acts of violence could come from various factors including home life, family, and friends. Parents should be aware and cautious of what their children are up to!
8. Does the Net Gen have a Misguided Sense of Entitlement and Bad Work Ethic?: Yes and no! The Net Gen seems to be coming into work ill prepared-in the eyes of some. They have no desire to sit in a cubicle and work. Their desire is to use all their technology (including FB) to collaborate and get things done on their own time. It does not, however, mean it will take them longer to get work done. It just means it will take them the time adequately needed. It all depends on how you perceive work ethic.
9. Are they Narcissistic?: Actions speak louder than words, and the actions show they are not. They drink and smoke less, commit fewer crimes, take less risks, and volunteer more. I find this interesting. It seems the world (as bad as it can be) is getting better in some areas. That is refreshing, isn’t it?
10. What about Their Values? Do they just want to be Rich and Famous?: They do want to be rich, but many of them have to for the amount of education debt they will build. They like technology and want the newest and greatest. So, yes, money is important to them. I struggle with this aspect because in my life I have been taught “moderation in all things”—“need vs. want”. It seems that some of this technology is becoming a “need”. I have a computer; it isn’t fancy or wonderful, however it fulfills my needs. I have a phone too. I can make calls and even send text. However, it is nowhere near what some of my 6th grade students have. Do I need to change my outlook on what a need is vs. a want so I can relate to my students and peers?
In conclusion, it’s as the saying goes, “We fear what we don’t understand.” We need to try to understand this generation. We need to not just understand them, but relate to them and try to be a partnership with them. As we strive for collaboration, they might just surprise us with their motivation and talent.
