Ageism in the Workplace

I read an interesting article from the Read Write Web about ageism in the workforce in the IT field. It is unfortunate that prospective workers get judged by their age, and sometimes people assume because they are older, they might not do as good of a job, especially in this field where everything is always new and rapidly changing. The article even pointed to research that was suprising to me, which showed how old age of those working in information technology is assoicated with a smaller salary and less benefits.  It is sad that older people sometimes get discriminated against solely because of their age, despite their capabilities, knowledge, and qualificaitons.  In contrast, the article brought up another interesting point, saying that ageism likes this doesn't play out as much in the business world. It said that, oftentimes, entrepuenurs who become quite successful are older (40s+).

Reading this article made me think about whether I see ageism in my field. I do not see many ways that older teachers are discriminated against in any way that would reflect monetary loss.... I mean not really. I suppose some might argue that if older teachers are encouraged to retire with some special type of buy-out plan, then that could be considered ageist, but I think it's kind of a stretch to say that. Or if a younger teacher gets hired over an older teacher. But this might be for several reasons besides age, like financial reasons. Less experienced candidates with minimal degrees would be cheaper to hire than veteran teachers with advanced degrees.  Younger teachers might be perceived as having a broader skills-set within certains areas (like technology), philosophy shaped by modern research, and more enthusiasm for their subject area, but this should not just be assumed. Nor should it be assumed that older teachers do not possess those same skills and qualities.  I guess there is definitely potential for ageism in education, but I do not see it a whole lot.  Maybe that's because I am younger and don't notice. Hmmm.