In the human history comes occasionally an invention that moves with the whole world and influences its development.
There is a pattern in the way how people react to such major changes. Some reject it, some are skeptical towards the unknown, some take it as it is and try to adapt and so on.
But what about the next generation? They do not have to adapt and change their mental models. They grow up with technology, which makes their brains to develop in a different way, because the brain changes according to what it is exposed to.
One of the major inventions was the internet and in this book we can take a closer look on its effect on generations.
The first part of this book explores the different development of our brain and focuses on understanding the Net generation norms and values in the context of previous generations. Second part is about the transformation of schools, businesses, and family lifestyles, based on the different mindset and requirements for prosperity triggered by the internet. Third part discovers how the Net generation transforms society, especially in politics and activism. In the end the author debunks some of the most (un)popular beliefs about the Net generation.
I chose this book to support our team learning process (Y2) therefore I will mainly focus on the educational part.
Why is it important to learn about this?
- Understanding the development of generations can give me a broader context for different life situations.
- To raise awareness about my generation will help me understand our needs and behaviors better
Who is Net Generation?
- According to the book, its people born between 1977 – 1997. But it is important to consider the publishing year of this book (2008). Therefore, I consider my age group a part of it as well.
- They are the active users of technology rather than passive users (TV, radio, reading articles)
Throughout this book, the author refers multiple times to The Net generation norms. These norms came out of research done in USA and are a brief overview of what this generation needs and values.
Freedom
Customized stuff
They are Scrutinizers (inspect)
Corporate integrity and openness
Entertainment and play at work, education, or social life.
Collaboration and relationship generation
Need for speed.
They are the innovators.
If we want to go with the times the institution we find ourselves in, should reflect and support those norms.
I was very happy to realize, our Tiimiakatemia Prague is the place to prepare yourself for todays world. We are given a huge freedom to choose what we want to learn. Our learning comes from our personal need and no one tells us strictly what we should do. We are given space to customize our learning from things like processes in team companies to small stuff like customized workspace. “They want to learn, but they want to learn only what they have to learn, and they want to learn it in a style that is best for them.” We are encouraged to scrutinize (zkoumat) everything we are unsure about or that simply interests us. We form an open community, where everyone, who lives our values, has always a place. Fun and entertainment is always part of our work. We play games, music or dance many times throughout the days, which makes us laugh and lights up the mood. I don’t even have to mention our major focus on collaboration and forming meaningful relationships. Our working tempo outstanding. When we want something, we can get things moving really fast and there is an opportunity for it. Innovations and experiments are a necessary and natural part of our learning. ALL OF NET NORMS ARE PART OF OUR TEAM LEARNING. (subjective)
It would be nice, if more schools inspired their system from us and prepare their students for the real life outside. Because these norms are hiding underneath the development of skill needed in fast moving world.
„The ability to learn new things is more important than ever in a world where you have to process new information at lightning speed. Students need to be able to think creatively, critically, and collaboratively; to master the “basics” and excel in reading, math, science, and information literacy, and respond to opportunities and challenges with speed, agility, and innovation. Students need to expand their knowledge beyond the doors of their local community to become responsible and contributing global citizens in the increasingly complex world economy. „
Another aspect of changes that should be made in school systems is presented here:
I am happy to say, again, we are doing it! What interested me in this table is the transformation to “one-size-fits-one.” Meaning that not everyone has the same learning style, and we should not force it. We should be aware of our individual learning styles and make TS preparations according to it. For example, my learning style is writing, drawing or watching videos and making notes, so it wouldn’t make sense to read a document if there is another way.
ACTIVITIES WE COULD DO:
- Discover our learning styles
- Draw a picture or create a collage to represent our ideal work environment. Include all elements that are important to you. (-> find if we are missing something)
Conclusion:
This book gave me another perspective on why are we doing thigs the way we are. I understood the broader context of society development and why is it so important to know about yours and previous generation Because that can bring you a huge advantage in the future. I learned what is important is team learning process and am excited to explore what we could do better with my team.
“The scandal of education is that every time you teach something, you deprive a child of the pleasure and benefit of discovery.”
PS: after eaxh chapter in this book, there is a summary with guidelines, that I recommend to take a look at. There are great tips. Example:
