The Intersection of Old and New.
Modern technology is a new species of insect. To older generations, it may seem like an aggressive attack on comfortable living. To the young, it is a new idea that is yet to be obtained, just within reach. How can we, as a culture of modern citizens, create an environment where ALL can feel comfortable around a new "species" of technology?
Can we bring a greater sense of discovery to those that consistently feel anxious, stressed and/or scared of new technology? It spreads beyond just recent innovations. Think of something as ingrained in our culture as a toaster. Young people will be required to understand the goal behind the design of the toaster, and may even need to use it on a regular basis the rest of their lives. To them, it will be "new," and to those in previous generations that grew up when the toaster was first invented, it is still just a regular part of life.
Now, what happens when an "old" invention intersects with "new" innovation? Today's technology! (Don't forget about yesterday's technology, or tomorrow's technology either!) If it is new to you, it's a new tech tool. No matter how you look at it, both the young and old are discovering the inner-workings and meaning behind a tool. Right now. Today.
"What exactly is happening within different generations," you ask? The young bring some serious gusto in adding enhancements (based on learned theory and observation in today's culture), while the old carry incredible insight into why this "thing" came into play to begin with. Naturally, a push and pull system arises. The younger generations are constantly seeking ways to make things better, brighter and bolder (bless their hearts), while the older generations (bless their hearts, too) are constantly asking "Why? Is this really necessary?"
One more thought: What happens when a "comfortable" mindset intersects with a "curious" mindset? My answer would be relevant innovation. Ideas that work for that individual and make sense to him or her. Today. Right now. Every time a relevant tool is discovered, explored and fully implemented by an individual, a new bar is set for creativity and innovation in that person's life, whether they are aware of it or not.
No matter when or where we grew up, we have been exposed to a culture with a very specific set of tools and a certain path of growth and welfare. Change and "new-ness" can be frightening to any of us. But, what pushes us through this initial fear is the sense that, "Hey, this could actually be pretty cool. What else can it do?" That flicker, flare and flame of discovery can drive someone of any age onto a path of innovation, all their own.
Can we bring a greater sense of discovery to those that consistently feel anxious, stressed and/or scared of new technology? It spreads beyond just recent innovations. Think of something as ingrained in our culture as a toaster. Young people will be required to understand the goal behind the design of the toaster, and may even need to use it on a regular basis the rest of their lives. To them, it will be "new," and to those in previous generations that grew up when the toaster was first invented, it is still just a regular part of life.
Now, what happens when an "old" invention intersects with "new" innovation? Today's technology! (Don't forget about yesterday's technology, or tomorrow's technology either!) If it is new to you, it's a new tech tool. No matter how you look at it, both the young and old are discovering the inner-workings and meaning behind a tool. Right now. Today.
"What exactly is happening within different generations," you ask? The young bring some serious gusto in adding enhancements (based on learned theory and observation in today's culture), while the old carry incredible insight into why this "thing" came into play to begin with. Naturally, a push and pull system arises. The younger generations are constantly seeking ways to make things better, brighter and bolder (bless their hearts), while the older generations (bless their hearts, too) are constantly asking "Why? Is this really necessary?"
One more thought: What happens when a "comfortable" mindset intersects with a "curious" mindset? My answer would be relevant innovation. Ideas that work for that individual and make sense to him or her. Today. Right now. Every time a relevant tool is discovered, explored and fully implemented by an individual, a new bar is set for creativity and innovation in that person's life, whether they are aware of it or not.
No matter when or where we grew up, we have been exposed to a culture with a very specific set of tools and a certain path of growth and welfare. Change and "new-ness" can be frightening to any of us. But, what pushes us through this initial fear is the sense that, "Hey, this could actually be pretty cool. What else can it do?" That flicker, flare and flame of discovery can drive someone of any age onto a path of innovation, all their own.