It’s a generation gap, basically. Digital immigrants are at the older end; they prefer to read information in print in something they can hold in their hand. Those of a younger age prefer the new technologies, and are quite comfortable reading on the computer or on their phone. They learn differently, access information differently, and are changing everything.
That’s a very brief overview. The terms were coined by Mark Prensky a few years back. For details, view the links on my del.icio.us page. The link to that is on this page.
I’m an in-betweener. Got one foot in both camps. I understand and am very familiar with the paper-based methodologies, and am thrilled to see all these new devices and possibilities – and am using them as much as possible. I’ve seen a name for my age group: Generation Jones. http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Generation_Jones
My generation’s role, I believe, is that of transition-moderator. We have the expertise, like baby-boomers, but we’re not ready to retire just yet. Plus we’re ready to embrace the new technologies. So maybe, just maybe, we can help companies transition through this massive shift in demographics that is upon us – and have fun to boot!
My mum is a baby boomer, so I was very curious to learn about ‘Generation Jones’. Checked the wiki. So many in my family belong to that generation, me included. Was nice to learn about this new term.