They span the line between Generation Z and Generation Alpha, born partially in the era of the former and extending into the latter, representing the offspring of millennials. They are the first generation to be fully immersed in the digital age from birth,(2010 onwards) where technology is not just a tool but an integral part of their daily lives.
Many of them have never heard of icons like Dennis Brown or JBC, the now-defunct media house, nor the Tastee Talent contest or whatever it became after my company ended its association. However, they are well-versed in the names of dancehall figures like Beenie Man, Buju Banton, Bounty Killer, and Nadine Sutherland, showing a keen interest in that music genre.
Today (May 8) I contributed to Teachers Day at Ardenne High, my alma mater, thanks to the invitation from Jermaine Heslop, President, the Ardenne Alumni Association. I spoke about what Ardenne was like in my era in the 70’s. During the presentation, I requested that the students take pictures for me to post on Facebook when I write my story. These students informed me that Facebook is considered outdated, and reserved for "old people." Instead, they prefer platforms like Instagram, TikTok, and even Wattpad, a platform that both myself and their form teacher, were hearing about for the first time. This left me intrigued and cautious, as they whispered amongst themselves that it has a reputation for potentially 'raunchy' content. However, upon exploration, before writing this story, I discovered a diverse range of content suitable for all ages, reflecting their multi-faceted interests and preferences.
Today’s experience has left me pondering the boundaries for these "children" who seem to navigate the digital landscape with ease and independence. Their perspectives on education and career aspirations are equally eye-opening. Rather than seeking traditional employment, they aspire to entrepreneurship, leveraging their diverse talents to create businesses and tell their own stories through various channels, from writing to film production to cosmetology.
Their passion and drive to carve their own paths are evident, reflecting a mindset our generation may have yet to fully embrace. Technology has undoubtedly played a significant role in shaping their worldview, offering them opportunities beyond the confines of traditional career paths.
Leaving the session, I departed with a renewed sense of energy, pondering why our generation did not perceive things as these students do. Technology has undoubtedly played a pivotal role, expanding their perspectives and freeing them from narrow constraints. As they journey through this new world, unbounded by the limitations of our era, it's evident that our outlook no longer carries the same weight in this ever-changing environment.
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Contributed by
Lois Grant
Lois Grant, JP, MA, BA (Hons), Dip Mass Comm, Cert. Broadcast Journalism BBC-London, is a powerhouse in communications. Co-founding Innercity Promotions, she transformed dance hall music branding. Grant later founded Corporate Image Communications and Productions, organizing innovative events for top brands. Her influence extends to shaping political landscapes across three Caribbean islands, including her tenure as Director of Communications in the Office of the Prime Minister (2007-2013) in Jamaica. Now retired, she consults for prestigious entities like NBC Sports and as a travel influencer.
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Thank you Lois Grant for that interesting read. Things and times have really changed. as a graduate of Ardenne you make me very proud. I think the classroom must be such a challenge for today's teachers. I think the system has not kept abreast with the technology and there will be problems.
ReplyDeleteI am so excited to know that Lois Grant and I have something in common. I knew there was something extra special about her. Deo Duce Quaere Optima!!
ReplyDeleteIt was good that you participated in Teacher's Day and had an engaging interaction with the new generation of students.
ReplyDeleteTheir responses and your findings were quite instructive and have serious implications for the Jamaica education system and processes:
-The school curriculum must be revised in keeping with the demands of the current and emerging labour market.
The teacher training curriculum must produce Educational professionals who are capable of applying digital and state of the arts technologies and methodologies in teaching and learning.
-The educational institutions must be properly resourced to equip learners with the "Pillars of Education": learning to learn; learning to do; learning to live; and learning to be, in order to
achieve relevant and effective educational outcomes for Jamaica's socio-economic development.