Twelve tips for facilitating Millennials’ learning

Abstract

With an increased understanding of the characteristics of the current generation of medical trainees, faculty will be better able to facilitate learning and optimize interactions with Millennial Learners.

FUTURE: New strategies for hospitalists to overcome challenges in teaching on today's wards

“…Millennials prefer structured learning environments that focus heavily on interaction and experiential learning, and they value design and appearance in how material is presented. 7 Millennials also seek clear expectations and immediate feedback on their performance, and though they have sometimes been criticized for a strong sense of entitlement, they have a strong desire for collaboration and group-based activity. 5,6 One of the most notable and defining characteristics of the Millennial Generation is an affinity for technology and innovation.…”

“…5,6 One of the most notable and defining characteristics of the Millennial Generation is an affinity for technology and innovation. [7][8][9] Web-based learning tools that are interactive and engaging, such as blogs, podcasts, or streaming videos are familiar and favored methods of learning. Millennials are skilled at finding information and providing answers and data, but may need help with synthesis and application.…”

The Medical Education of Generation Y

“…Because Generation Y tends to use a variety of learning resources, inpatient attending physicians can share clinically relevant articles with the team via e-mail (visual), capture teaching opportunities with focused white board lectures (auditory), teach at the bedside (kinesthetic), and encourage senior residents to teach interns and students after the attending has completed rounds. Educators at Harvard highlight the importance of educators understanding the generational differences and cultural environments that are unique to Generation Y [19]. They also state how understanding the different learning styles may minimize intergenerational tension.…”

“…Although students are able to read and learn information on their own, instructors can act as coaches and mentors to stimulate and challenge thinking, guide them in solving problems, and encourage their learning and application of the material [19]. Active learning exercises (e.g., teamwork, debates, self-reflection, case studies) prompt students' engagement and reflection, encourage them to explore attitudes and values, while fostering motivation to acquire knowledge and enhance skills.…”

Utilizing an Innovative Preceptor Video Mini-Series to Prepare Students for Experiential Rotations: Does it Work?

“…Utilization of high quality, interactive, engaging presentations is a both a preference and expectation of the millennial generation. 19 Thus, providing a visual representation of a rotation through professionally produced videos may be a reasonable approach to further prepare learners for experiential rotations.…”