IndexTechnological differences between generationsDisadvantages associated with the use of technology in the learning environmentWorks CitedThe mornings at my grandparents' house are a perfect example of how different generations can accomplish the same task in different ways very different. My grandmother puts the mail on the table and starts making the shopping list and remembering the things she has to do that day. My grandfather, while reading the newspaper, asks my grandmother to print something of hers that he needs so he can then fax it to the insurance office. Meanwhile, while this is happening, I'm doing all the same tasks; only on a portable device in one place. Even when they venture into the world of technology, it seems limited. Say no to plagiarism. Get a tailor-made essay on "Why Violent Video Games Shouldn't Be Banned"? Get an Original EssayDifferent generations take advantage of the technology available to them. Typically, the later in life a person begins to use the technology available to them can determine how deeply they will delve into their world. Some will use it more than others, but it seems like at some point there's a limit where it's more comfortable to stick with what you've always known. In addition to different individual preferences, it also includes different opinions on whether technology has been helpful or detrimental when it comes to reading and writing. Today, studies show that technology has impacted the reading and writing habits of many Americans and they choose to use what new technological advances have to offer. However, there appears to be a difference between older and younger generations regarding their preference on whether or not to use technology for reading and writing purposes. For the purposes of this essay, I will classify older generations as those ranging from the "Silent Generation" to "Generation X" (born 1925-1979). I will categorize younger generations as those ranging from “Millennials” to “Generation Z” (born 1980-2012). Technological Differences Between Generations Most Americans today use technology to some extent; it was reported that nearly ninety-five percent of the population owns a smartphone in 2018 (Pew Research Center). While most Americans use technology, it is important to recognize that not all individuals, let alone generations, use it in the same way. “Each generation has its own distinct characteristics, one of which is how they use technology. With technology rapidly innovating at a breakneck speed, the gap between each generation also impacts how each age group uses various technology platforms to make their lives much easier….” Furthermore, the article delves into the analysis of individual generations and generalizes which technologies they use most in terms of reading and writing for communication. Individuals born in the years 1965 to 1979, known as “Generation X,” primarily use email and the telephone when using technology to communicate. “Millennials,” those born between 1980 and 1996, primarily use text messaging and social media to communicate. Those born after the year 1996, "Generation Z", mainly use portable devices to communicate. One thing that really sets generations apart when it comes to technology is how they prefer to read the news and other current events. Older generations, like my grandparents, grew up in the days of reading the newspaper delivered to their home; and despite all the technology available today, it can be said that they still prefer their original habits ofreading and writing. In a study conducted by the Pew Research Center, different age groups were asked whether they preferred to read the news in the newspaper or online. The findings of this study support the theory that younger generations are more likely to take advantage of what technology has to offer, such as news applications on a mobile device or websites on a computer, than older generations. In the eighteen to twenty-nine age group, 10% said they preferred to get their news by reading the newspaper and 81% preferred to read the news online. In the thirty to forty-nine age group, thirteen percent preferred the newspaper and seventy-two percent preferred to read the news online. In the fifty to sixty-four age group, forty percent preferred newspapers and forty-one percent preferred online. Of those sixty-five and older, sixty-three percent preferred to read the newspaper and twenty percent preferred to read the news online. To put it briefly, younger generations simply prefer to read news via online platforms, while older generations prefer their original habits of reading newspapers. Another important factor to analyze is whether or not technology was beneficial to younger generations while growing up, especially in regards to student development and the learning environment. In a study of more than 3,000 American college students, 81% agreed that technology has improved their efficiency and grades. In contexts like these, technology has a lot to offer and, when used responsibly, can be of great benefit to students. Interactive learning and study tools on the Internet and applications available for download are statistically preferred by students enrolled in university courses. Not only has technology changed the way we learn and develop on college campuses, but also in elementary schools. “The impact that technology has had on schools today has been quite significant. This widespread adoption of technology has completely changed the way teachers teach and students learn.” It is in fact proven that learning with technology brings benefits. Students believe they retain more information, are able to learn at their own pace, and overall this makes learning exciting. Negatives Associated with the Use of Technology in the Learning Environment When technology is not used properly for educational purposes, distractions pose a threat and hinder the learning process. students' ability to retain information and fully absorb what they are taught. Due to irresponsible use by students, it can be discouraging for teachers or professors to allow the use of technology in the classroom. Likewise, computers cannot fulfill or replace the role of a teacher or provide the necessary classroom experience. “Computers cannot replace hands-on experience with art materials, scientific equipment, or musical instruments.” Older generations had a uniquely different learning environment than younger generations today in the twenty-first century. It can be discussed either way when evaluating the positive and negative effects to determine how technology impacts modern students. Please note: this is just an example. Get a custom paper from our expert writers now. Get a Custom Essay Ultimately, there are differences.