Michelle

While reading iBrain for Info Commons the part that I found most interesting was the comparison between ‘digital natives’ and ‘digital immigrants.’ I found this important because I see it in everyday life.  I see it during the summer while watching my grandmother and niece try to use an iPad, or other technology, together. My niece grew up knowing this technology and uses it with ease while my grandmother has more trouble using it, often giving up before learning how to use it.  I also see this in our work environment. At the library many patrons are from an older generation and they often need help operating the computers or software on them.  Most students are already acclimated to the technology and only have problems when the technology is not available for use. Some students do not know how to use things like a card catalog or print media.  I have seen many students become frustrated when having to use pencil and paper to write down information rather than printing it out because a printer is broken.  I knew there was a generation gap when it came to knowing about technology, but now knowing it comes from our minds being wired differently makes the difference more understandable.