According to the blog taping.com, hunt and peck typing is a technique using one finger from each hand–usually the index or middle fingers–to “hunt” for keys on the keyboard. But what do you call this when someone pecks into the phone with one finger?
I am pretty sure that I am not the only Gen Z-er who has parents who are fighting with technology every day because they are unable to log-in to accounts—for some reason they always forget the passwords, have trouble navigating websites, and in the middle of frustration declare war on the devil!
With degrees, titles, and recognitions, these adults know the world, are street smart, and have done so much, but technology is the wall that stops them from advancing.
And it is so amusing to see them struggle with a task that for us is as natural as breathing, well at least for my siblings and me.
The technology generation gap between Gen Z (people born between 1997 and 2012) and Generation X (people born between 1961 and 1981) refers to the differences in how these two generations interact with and utilize technology, and the gap is very real.
The Gaps:
We Gen Z-ers have grown up with tablets, smartphones, and the internet, making us true digital natives. Generation X, on the other hand, adopted technology later in life.
Gen Z is accustomed to online learning and digital resources, while Generation X learned primarily through traditional classroom methods. Talking about Social media preferences, Gen Z favors platforms like TikTok, Snapchat, and Instagram, while Generation X is more likely to use Facebook and LinkedIn. Gen Z uses mobile devices more extensively, while Generation X still relies on desktop computers and laptops. Gen Z has a higher level of digital literacy, with many learning coding and programming skills from a young age. We even created a new language of jargon: LOL, WDYM, or IDK, which leaves some parents in lala land.
These differences can lead to misunderstandings and communication barriers between Gen Z and Generation X but let’s understand the basics
Decoding the codes:
Native digital individuals may use various terms to refer to those who are not as technologically savvy or familiar with digital technologies:
Digital immigrant: individuals who have adapted to digital technologies later in life, unlike digital natives who grew up with them.
Technophobe: describes someone who fears or dislikes technology.
Old school: used to describe someone who prefers traditional methods or is less familiar with modern digital technologies.
Dinosaur: used to describe someone who is perceived as being out of touch with modern digital technologies.
Which of these terms applies better to your parents?
Keep in mind that these terms can be perceived as derogatory, so let’s be cool, and, instead, let’s use these opportunities for knowledge sharing and collaboration.
Personally, my Grandma, who is 80 years old, is a Facebook native who swims through the posts with her crooked, arthritic fingers and watches her Christian Mass on YouTube! She is my favorite “hunt and pecker” since she is so efficient!
Talking about tech, I asked Meta AI how Gen Z can help their parents to improve their technology skills and these are some of the suggestions:
1. Offer to teach parents how to use new devices, apps, and software at their own pace.
2. Assist with technical issues, like fixing Wi-Fi connections or resolving error messages.
3. Show parents how to use productivity apps, streaming services, and other helpful technologies.
4. Educate parents about online threats, phishing scams, and how to protect personal information.
5. Define technical terms and jargon to help parents better understand technology.
