MILLENNIAL GENERATION AND EDUCATION

author is a Teacher

-oOoThe

II at Caduang Tete Elementary School

AUREO D. BAKING

Millennial generation belongs to those who have been born between 1981 to 2001. They were raised in the era of the so-called instant access. Why? Because they engage more on text messaging using their mobile phone and other gadgets. They communicate through multi-media, and that is their visible style of contacting their circle of friends and acquaintances. Web-based tools such as web-CT, online courses, online journals, and the like are some of their learning modes. That is why, the different learning environment is important to understand as far as learning in school as well workplace is concerned. The Millennials are dubbed as techno-literate, techno-savvy. Their fluency in technology makes them more and more dependent on it. According to many studies, 97% of these Millennial college or even high school students have their own mobile or smart phones and over two-thirds of them sent text messages to their friends. They usually download podcasts and even music they prefer. Most of the time, they take photos with their phones and forward text messages in their created messaging language styles. Instant text messaging and chat rooms are said to be essential to them. No wonder, technology really keeps them remain connected and together as they collaborate and establish team building. Millennials have different way of learning styles. There are some concerns about the effects on their learning process based from their characteristics. Many of them are accustomed to watching TV. It also includes talking on the phone, doing homework, eating, and interacting with their parents all the same time. Routine multitasking behavior may have shortened their attention span and caused them to lack critical thinking skills and introspection. Although there is a wide concern of the Millennials’ analysis material, but there is a confidence in their usage of media that can be a tool for learning. It was noted that digital technology for these “peer-driven learners” make them way ahead of the adults in understanding how to use the technology as tools toward learning. Learning styles and methods will have to continually adapt to engage and educate this generation and their learning preferences. Many future studies about Millennials may continue to advance in the future, but only comparisons may yield more information with this type of generation.

-oOoTHE AUTHOR IS MASTER TEACHER I AT ANGELES CITY NATIONAL TRADE SCHOOL