Generation Z Teacher Candidates' Perspective: An Explanatory Mixed-Methods Inquiry

• In Event: Moscone Center West Roundtable Session 12
  In Roundtable Session: Diverse Considérations in Recruiting and Supporting Teachers

Abstract

Generation Z individuals born between 1995-2012 currently represent 25% of the population and will soon exceed the Millennials as the largest generation (Dill, 2015). Thus, lack of practical knowledge and understanding may lead to employee turnover (Flippen, 2017). This study addresses how teacher education programs, cooperating teachers, principals, superintendents, university faculty, and hiring committees might have a limited understanding of Generation Z Teacher Candidates. With this limited understanding, issues arise. Therefore, the researcher conducted an explanatory sequential mixed methods inquiry in order to provide insight to this diverse cohort. Findings may help education programs target areas of improvement and provide cooperating teachers with an understanding of the perceptions and characteristics of teacher candidates.

Authors

• Rochelle Cortino, Texas A&M University - Corpus Christi

• Bethanie C. Pletcher, Texas A&M University - Corpus Christi