Understanding digital generations
Some experts say that we have five to six generations living on the earth right now. These generations can actually be broken into four digital categories in a technological world. During this year’s pandemic, these categories became evident and naturally shifted people’s perspectives, resulting in the tensions we feel regarding technology and over the way we communicate.
Digital pioneers
These people are creating and sustaining future growth. When you think of the technological shifts with Facebook, Google, Apple and Microsoft, digital pioneers are creating and leading on the front lines. They are writing their own communication language based on a system that centers around a computer and learning software that is bringing America into the next level of technology. Today, we see things like Artificial Intelligence, virtual reality glasses and online gaming systems that connect people to a virtual community that others cannot see. The pioneers are paving the way to a stronger computer-savvy world. They have shift to make the changes needed very quickly and can adapt to most situations because they are comfortable in the digital world.
Digital natives
This generation only knows life with a screen, a phone in one hand and a coffee in the other. This generation has been using screens since they were little. Digital natives have a lower level of verbal communication but a higher level of digital communication. Their behaviors of liking posts and sharing things they agree with have shaped the digital culture. Online platforms like IGTV, YouTube and TikTok have become their television. They learn about their world from their phones.
Digital immigrants
This group is not on the inside track of advancing future technology but has adapted to the current changes. They knew life without a cell phone and email. For them, the technological advances have prodded them to “catch-up” with the shifts that have taken place in lingo and devices. They are still adapting to advances, but with a slower learning curve. They tend to question why we can’t go back to the way things were and be more resistant to the changes because they knew life outside of a screen. The way they run their companies can appear outdated to their younger consumers. However, suppose they take some time to learn and incorporate the Digital Native into their life. In that case, they will find a better understanding to grow and learn.
Digital outcasts
These people refuse to adapt to technology and resent change. They find themselves living in an isolated and insulated quiet life. Their circles tend to be smaller, and their days are more simplified. They do not need to know the fastest updates, usually read a newspaper or watch television for news, and maybe catch the local news around word of mouth. If they do own a cell phone is for essential use and not as a way of life. In their mind, a phone is to be used for making calls, not as a computer. They don’t have a need to keep up with those around them, and their lives seem less stressful.
As Christian leaders, it is not our job to make judgments about each group, or even to try to move people from one group to another. Instead, we must prayerfully seek ways to share the Gospel and disciple each generation using methods that are relevant and meaningful to their contexts.
Gary Mortiz serves as the church revitalization director at the Baptist Convention of New England.