An Analysis Of Generational Differences And Their Effects On Schools And Student Performance

This study examined the effects of generational differences on student achievement of students in Brevard Public Schools, Brevard County, Florida. The independent variable was the generational cohorts (Traditionalist, Baby Boomer, Generation X, and Millennials). The dependent variable was the factors of job satisfaction, organizational commitment, and work motivation. A second dependent variable was Value-Added Measure (VAM) scores calculated by the Department of Education for the state of Florida for each teacher of grades K-12. These VAM scores were derived from the Florida Comprehensive Assessment Test (FCAT) Reading and Math Developmental Scale scores to show a teacher’s effect on student achievement. A convenience sample of teachers was surveyed from the population of all Brevard Public Schools teachers, and respondents’ VAM scores were analyzed for differences in the means. Findings showed that there was a statistically significant difference in job satisfaction among the generational cohorts based on the benefits factor. Baby Boomers found benefits to be a more important aspect of job satisfaction than did Millennials. There was also a statistically significant difference in organizational commitment among the generational cohorts based on career at current school. Baby Boomers found spending the rest of their career at their current school significantly more important than did Millennials. There was no statistically significant difference among the generational cohorts in work motivation or means of VAM scores. Recommendations were made for future studies that generalize the finding to other counties in Florida, other states, and other countries. The possibility of generational impact being a cultural experience would be addressed. Another possible future study included examining individuals within a single generational cohort. Gender considerations are one area iii for study. Furthermore, it is recommended that future studies move beyond one timeframe for gathering data. A longitudinal study of the same people within a generation from the beginning of their career to the end to determine if values change due to aging and gaining experience as compared to belonging to a generation should be conducte