With jobs constantly evolving and changing, digital skills are becoming crucial for older generations, especially if they want to stay relevant in the digital age. While Gen Z is well-equipped to tackle these challenges, Gen X and Boomers face a growing need to develop the right technical and interpersonal skills to remain competitive.
Do you know which generation you belong to?
- Gen X: Born between 1965 and 1980
- Boomers: Born between 1946 and 1964
- Gen Z: Born between 1997 and 2012
- Millennials: Born between 1981 and 1996
But is this change happening at the right pace? As technology continues to evolve, it’s crucial to ask whether Gen X and Boomers are receiving the education and support they need to effectively upskill.
To explore this further, IT Logs spoke with Dr. Oliana Sula from Aleksandër Moisiu University in Durrës, Albania. Dr. Sula recently presented on the topic of “Strategies for Lifelong Learning in the Workplace through Digital Education for Digital Migrants.” Her research highlights both the challenges and opportunities facing Gen X and Boomers in the region.
How do you define “digital migrants” and why is it important for this group to develop technical and soft digital skills?
Oliana Sula: “During my PhD, I attended a EuroDig event in Tallinn about seven years ago. We discussed ‘digital migrants’—those who didn’t grow up in a digital environment but are now transitioning into it. This is particularly noticeable in various professions. For example, teachers lacking ICT backgrounds struggle to integrate technology into classrooms. Boomers have especially faced challenges due to digitalization.“
What are some of the most significant challenges facing Gen X and Boomers, and have you seen a difference between the two generations?
Oliana Sula: “I don’t see the same challenges for Gen X. Those born in the late 1970s and early 1980s have experienced digitization throughout their lives and careers. My research is ongoing, and while I lack a technical background, I focus on understanding the pathways and needs of these individuals, rather than just the technical aspects.”
How do you think soft digital skills complement technical skills in the modern workplace?
Oliana Sula: “I believe that the concept of digital skills is becoming somewhat outdated. AI tools like ChatGPT are increasingly used by Boomers and others born before 1980. These tools offer quick solutions to complex problems. My focus has always been on soft skills—understanding the types of skills people need, beyond just technical expertise.”
How can educators use AI tools without compromising students’ critical thinking skills?
Oliana Sula: “AI remains a relatively under-researched topic in schools, especially among older generations. While younger students might be more familiar with AI tools, older generations often find them unfamiliar or surprising. It’s important to ensure that AI tools do not replace the critical thinking and intellectual effort that students need to put in.”
Regarding the private sector, what strategies do you recommend to companies to facilitate the retraining of their workforce?
Oliana Sula: “The challenge in our region is the reluctance of the private sector to invest in upskilling older job candidates. While companies should include all age groups in their training programs, the focus is often on younger employees. The public sector needs to take the lead in improving national strategies that specifically address digital skills and upskilling for all age groups.”
For the full interview, visit IT Logs.
