Simulation : coaching Oscar performances from Millennial nursing students

Abstract

GWEN ERLAM set out in her doctoral research to bridge the generation gap and find the best way to reach and teach Millennial nursing students using simulated learning environments.

It is now widely believed that generational tendencies can be tracked by birth cohort.

Nurses currently working in the health sector span four generation cohorts (see box). The oldest cohort began training in the 1960s, the newest this millennium, so each generation has been prepared for professional practice in quite different ways.

Today’s data-rich infosphere has profoundly influenced the youngest generation in their attitudes toward family, career, risk, romance, politics and religion. Generational theorists argue that the generational tendencies indicate a clear break between those born from 1982 onwards and those born before. The newest generational persona, the Millennials, are said to be unique and to have seven distinguishing characteristics. They believe they are:Special, Sheltered, Confident, Team-Orientated, Achieving, Pressured, Conventional.