Defining (by birth dates) and labeling any group of people and ascribing specific characteristics to them are fraught with problems of misrepresentation and generalization. Several researchers have proffered reasons and particular advantages to identifying this generation as well as others and their distinguishing characteristics. However, the concept of a clear-cut generation, cohort, population, or tribe has also been challenged. Despite the role of technology in their lives, they are infinitely more complex than any single profile can reveal. They comprise a fluid, messy, and diverse group, where a one-size-fits-all mold ignores their variability in skills, abilities, learning styles, experience, socio-economic levels, ethnicity, nationality, gender, sexual orientation, and class. Acknowledging those limitations, I still think there is legitimacy to suggesting a set of characteristics and cultural trends derived from sound scientific research that can guide future teaching practices for faculty.
COPYRIGHT © 2009 Ronald A. Berk, LLC
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