It seems that the biggest change between generations from the Silent Generation to Generations X, Y, and Z, is the use of technology. Even being a part of Generation X and growing up through all of the rapid advances in technology, I am not anywhere near as comfortable with technology as my children are. I also note the significant differences in how the different generations socialize. Up through Generation X, we preferred socializing in person and social gatherings. The newer generations are always connected, but virtually. I think it is helpful to be aware of the general characteristics of each generational cohort so that we, as instructors, can provide the right type of learning experiences to reach all of our students. At the end of the day, however, I think it is even more important to get to know each student as an individual so you can be even more adept at providing student-centered instruction.
