Generation Z students: Will they change our nursing classrooms?

Abstract

The purpose of this paper will be to focus on characteristics of Generation Z students and to provide suggestions for how to create a meaningful learning environment for them. Students who are age 21 or younger, who were born in 1995 or after, are the new Generation Z students.  As with any other generational cohort, Generation Z students have their own unique characteristics that influence their approach to education and work. This article presents information about the characteristics of Generation Z students, their views about education and work, information faculty need to understand about this group of students, and implications for nursing educators who are working with Generation Z students.