We all seemed to focus on the same major facts of these articles about generations. The first article, “Talking About Their Generations” by William Strauss was about the traits of each generation and their experiences. These experiences shaped individuals and created certain learning profiles. The five generations defined wereG.I. Generation: Born 1901 – 1924, currently ages 80 - 104
Silent Generation: Born 1925 - 1942, currently ages 62 - 80Boom Generation: Born 1943 - 1960, currently ages 44 - 62Generation X: Born 1961 - 1981, currently ages 23 - 44Millennial Generation: Born 1982 +, currently ages 23 and youngerStrauss’s article focuses more on defining the X and Millennial generations so that they can be better understood by educators today.

Following the same trend, the second article, "Harnessing the Power of Millennials" by Neil Howe explored, in depth, the Millennial Generation. The article addresses these students and defines them further. These students are resources for the future and they excel in modern education, with an undying appreciation for technology and constant advancement.

There are many underlying messages in these two articles. For one, they prove that nothing is random. Defining these generations explains some of the changes in the American education system. These articles also serve as a wealth of resources for all education professionals when examining their students. Knowing the impact life experience has on a student’s learning style is always good to be aware of. Lastly, I think this article helps us to understand our colleagues because by illustrating their possible profiles we can be aware of their various ways of thinking.

As we read these articles, many of us were surprised and interested to learn about the definitions of each generation. Most of us didn’t know the span of time and traits that the separate generations had. Upon reading the second article, many of us were frustrated with the sweeping generalizations made about the Millennial Generation. With that said, these articles should be read with a grain of salt. If we were to take these ideas and apply them blindly they certainly wouldn’t work for all students. Not each individual we interact with will match the traits of their generation. As long as we teach to the student and not the group, we should still be able to be successful as educators.

http://www.collegevalues.org/articles.cfmevalues.org/diaries.cfm?a=1&id=613
https://www.msmc.la.edu/include/learning_resources/todays_learner/The_Net_Generation.pdf