I have to admit that I see many students who seem to be feeling entitled. I had one student tell me that this isn't Harvard and so we shouldn't expect as much from them. In other words, 'A' grades should be easier to come by and standards should be lowered to allow them to get through. Of course, I disagree wholeheartedly with this mentality and explained how they shouldn't expect so little of themselves.
Does that mean these students are narcissistic? That, as others have mentioned, is an extreme evaluation of a generation that has indeed been spoiled. However, let's recall that this attitude of each child being "special" began long before this generation. So what is different now? I have no answers.
I expect, no demand, respect in my classes. I work with students who are willing and have discussions with students I know can do better. That is all I know. Respect for my person may not be fair to ask but respect for my position of authority in the classroom is indeed required. As is it towards them.
I also disagree that we are all part of the analogue generation. I happen to be on the digital divide. I am comfortable in both worlds but that is because of the generation I was born into. I encourage them to use their digital know-how and find ways to exploit it in the classroom and for their assignments as it helps to interest them more profoundly in the task at hand. However, I have the advantage of being an IT instructor and so it is much easier to integrate this sort of thing into my course plans.
Another strategy for many of my problem-solving related courses is that I begin the session with a riddle or puzzle related to the type of problem-solving we will be discussing. This has had tremendous success as it is seen as a type of gaming, which this generation does love. But unlike the usual games, we can get beyond the trial and error type of problem-solving many of these students are used to from the gaming world.
Yes, ultimately, they are selfish, entitled and difficult. My father, who is in his 40th year of teaching says that it isn't very different from the 70's so I have hope for these kids.
Thank you.
