Generation What Now??

 

The Mysterious Generation Alpha: Friend or Foe?

    After getting out of class the other day (we had been discussing the differences between generations in the workplace) I got on the phone with one of my dear friends, Josh. He is currently 31 years old, was raised by Boomer parents, and acts a LOT more like Gen X than a Millennial, and has two kids born after 2012. I am 25, raised by Gen X parents, and feel a LOT more like Gen Z than a Millennial, and have no kids. "Josh," I said. "Do you realize that you're raising Generation Alpha?" He paused. "Generation what now??" We had a good laugh about it. Generation Alpha sounds almost foreboding, like the next generation of people in America is going to be some warrior class specifically trained to fight intense battles. "Yeah! Generation Alpha, it's the next one. The cut off is around 2012 apparently." As a future educator, it really got me thinking: What do we know about this next generation?

A Breakdown of the Generations Before:

Boomers

The Boomer Generation, also known as Baby Boomers, refers to individuals born roughly between 1946 and 1964. They experienced significant social and economic changes, witnessing the aftermath of World War II and participating in the cultural revolutions of the 1960s. This generation is characterized by its substantial impact on society, its influence on consumer trends, and its emphasis on traditional values such as hard work and family.Boomers 

Gen X

Gen X refers to the generation born approximately between the mid-1960s and early 1980s. Often described as the "forgotten middle child," Gen Xers grew up during times of social and political upheaval, witnessing the end of the Cold War and the rise of technology. They tend to be independent, resourceful, and adaptable individuals who value work-life balance and self-reliance.

Millennials 

The Millennial generation, born roughly between the early 1980s and mid-1990s, is often characterized as the first truly digital-native cohort. They grew up witnessing rapid technological advancements, such as the internet and social media, shaping their communication and social behaviors. Millennials are known for valuing diversity, work-life balance, social consciousness, and seeking meaningful experiences in their personal and professional lives.

Gen Z 

Gen Z, born roughly between the mid-1990s and early 2010s, is the first generation to grow up entirely in the digital age. They are highly tech-savvy, adept at navigating the internet and social media. Gen Z is known for its diversity, open-mindedness, and progressive values, actively advocating for social justice, environmental sustainability, and inclusivity. They are also marked by their entrepreneurial spirit and a desire for authentic and personalized experiences in all aspects of life. 

So... What are we noticing so far about Generation Alpha? 

According to a study done by Purdue University, G.A. will have:

• Similar rates of depression and anxiety that we're seeing in Gen Z
• Due to smaller family sizes, a greater sense of loneliness and lacking a sense of belonging
• An aptitude for being very self sufficient 
• The longest potential lifespans of any generation before them 
• The highest rate of multiracial workers and students ever recorded 

According to the internet, Gen Alpha will be forlorn, self sufficient, and live long, complicated lives. Sounds almost like we're raising the Elves from Lord of the Rings if you ask me! How will these attitudes impact Gen A in the classroom? Only time will tell, and we'll have to adapt to our learners like we always have. 

You got this Generation Alpha, we're ready for you. 

What are your predictions for the new generation? Comment below!

 "The Less Known Alpha Generation - Purdue e-Pubs." https://docs.lib.purdue.edu/cgi/viewcontent.cgi?article=1376&context=purc. Accessed 15 Jul. 2023.

Contribution in part by Generative AI.