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Abstract
Technology has transformed how educators teach and practitioners interact in the business community. However, research suggests that recent graduates, while technologically adept, are deficient in soft skills. This article investigates the current makeup of the millennial generation and the relationship between millennials and technology. Implications for Organizational Development (OD) programs and educators are explored and pedagogical solutions are presented. The concept of reciprocal mentoring is offered as a solution for practitioners to use within organizations.
Keywords: technology, millennials, organizational development, reciprocal mentoring
The current landscape of knowledge delivery in higher education has seen remarkable changes from past decades with a shift from traditional models to an emphasis on market demands (Friga, Bettis, & Sullivan, 2003; Jackson & Chapman, 2012; Navarro, 2008; Pheffer & Fong, 2004; Rynes & Trank, 1999; Zell 2001; Schomaker, 2008). The issues affecting the labor market in the United States are elements that strongly influence how and what higher education institutions offer in their curricula. As technology continues to become more prevalent in all areas of the job market, higher education institutions also place a heavy emphasis on incorporating technological skills into curricula Email: [email protected] and classroom delivery.
These changes have strong implications for Organizational Development (OD) educators and programs. To remain competitive, OD programs and educators are forced to either adapt to changing trends or lose students to competing programs that have embraced these changes. The question remains: are current trends in technological knowledge delivery serving our students well by creating well rounded graduates and future employees? Previous research provides some answers to this question. Sevens (2005, p. 3) reports "High-tech companies in areas like Silicon Valley value strong communication skills despite the emphasis on skills in technology." This evidence-based statement provides a foundation for this discussion.
Research on the millennial generation, who make up the vast majority of today's traditional OD students, suggest that technology usage both in the classroom and through online applications are one of the best ways to connect with students. The literature emphatically supports technology in the classroom and curricula delivery, but with a constantly connected student body, researchers question the implications technology has on students' abilities to manage themselves and others effectively in the workplace. Scholars recognize that because millennials are so comfortable...