A Late Y2K phenomenon: Responding to the learning preferences of generation y-bridging the digital divide by improving generational dialogue

摘要

From the first byte, computer-enabled interdepartmental communication has dramatically evolved. Generation Y is a product of this revolution and is currently the most connected generation. However, it is also the most socially isolated. The current enhanced mode of communication, although increasing the immediacy of dialogue, has also marginalized the emotional content inherent in face-to-face conversation. The growth of social media has helped to bridge the divide, albeit incompletely. Recent reports of increasing depression among medical students and residents, culminating in some instances with suicide, is occurring in this cohort at a rate twice that of the general population and is an increasing concern for their mentors and society at large. An understanding of how Generation Y is "wired" differently from preceding generations may help to anticipate this extreme response to depression and, in the process, improve intergenerational dialogue.