One leader in British education thinks the Millennials are not as easy to teach as children of even 10 years ago. From "Generation Y children are 'harder to teach'" (The Independent - UK):
Youngsters live in a world dominated by reality television and celebrities "where success appears to come instantly and without any real effort", John Dunford, the general secretary of the Association of School and College Leaders, which represents secondary school heads, told his annual conference in London. "It is difficult for teachers to compete," he added. "Success in learning just doesn't come fast enough."
Click to read the rest. Another article on the same topic: "Internet generation 'expects instant results'" (Daily Mail); both articles are based on the same talk given by Dr. John Dunford from which the above quote came.
In addition to the school challenges they present, the complaints about how this group perform as employees are numerous and loud. But, even though they are likely the most high-maintenance generation in the workplace, they can be managed once you understand how they differ from what came before them. For example, the successful employer knows that the Gen-Y-specific orientation is critical to their performing well on the job. Yes, managing them requires effort, but that management is not as difficult as some would have you believe.
Note: I am often asked when the Millennials were born. The dates vary depending upon which analyst or expert to whom you listen. Having listened to many, I say the cohort are those born from roughly 1980 through 2001.
Comments