Twelve tips for interfacing with the new generation of medical students: iGen

Abstract

iGen, or Generation Z, is the newest generation of health professions students to enter the classroom. This generation represents the first cohort of students in which technology has been present in all aspects of their lives. Since birth, they have been influenced by the boom of social media and wide-spread internet availability, leading to decreased face-to-face interactions and a desire for immediate access to information. Health professions educators should recognize the unique attributes of iGen students in order to foster student success and create a more positive learning environment. The following twelve tips examine the research-based distinctive characteristics of iGen students and highlight important concepts to consider when modifying current pedagogy to better support their needs. Incorporating these tips as an educator can promote lifelong learning and skill development for iGen students and empower this generation to thrive.

Keywords:

• iGen
• Generation Z
• medical education
• teaching
• generational differences

Glossary

iGen (also known as Generation Z or Gen Z)

Most generational experts agree that iGen members were born between 1995 and 2012. This generation has been shaped by the widespread growth of the internet, use of smartphones, and the rise of social media, in which distinctive characteristics include limited face-to-face interactions, social inclusivity, and high expectations regarding the immediate access to and delivery of information.

Twenge JM. 2017. iGen: why today’s super-connected kids are growing up less rebellious, more tolerant, less happy--and completely unprepared for adulthood. New York: Atria Books.

Millennial (also known as Generation Y or Gen Y)

Most generational experts agree that millennials were born between 1981 and 1995. This generation has been shaped by high loan debt, a declining job market, technological growth and overprotective parents, in which distinctive characteristics include confidence, optimism, digital connection, and a strong self-focus.

Twenge JM. 2014. Generation Me: why today's young americans are more confident, assertive, entitled--and more miserable than ever before (revised and updated). New York: Atria Books.

Brave Space

A brave space is a place where students are encouraged to learn outside of their personal comfort zone and address challenging and controversial issues.

Arao B, Clemens K. 2013. From safe spaces to brave spaces: a new way to frame dialogue diversity and social justice. In: Landreman L, editor. The art of effective facilitation. Sterling (VA): Stylus; p. 141.

Acknowledgments

Center for Excellence in Medical Education at Oakland University William Beaumont School of Medicine.

Disclosure statement

The authors report no conflicts of interest. The authors alone are responsible for the content and writing of the article.

Additional information

Notes on contributors

Sarah Lerchenfeldt

Sarah Lerchenfeldt, PharmD, is an assistant professor of pharmacology.

Stefanie M. Attardi

Stefanie M. Attardi, PhD, is an assistant professor of anatomical sciences.

Rebecca L. Pratt

Rebecca L. Pratt, PhD, is a professor of anatomical sciences.

Kara E. Sawarynski

Kara E. Sawarynski, PhD, is an associate professor of cell biology.

Tracey A. H. Taylor

Tracey A. H. Taylor, PhD, is an associate professor of microbiology.