Generations in the Classroom: New Complexities in Teaching and Learning

Generations are a product of society and embody different values and expectations relating to learning and working. The younger generations have been plugged into technology since they were babies. They expect a safe environment. They have a different understanding of "diversity." And they have more educated parents than any generation before them. The real challenge for colleges and universities today is offering programs and services using up-to-date technology to keep learners challenged and interested and teaching students whose most consistent teacher has been a computer. The workforce has been inundated with "under-30s," and things are changing as a result. Faculty, educational administration, business owners, and managers need to prepare for the new challenges and great opportunities heading their way. Those who plan for and embrace them will reap great reward.