“Generation Z” in Medical Education: Not Your Parent’s Doctors Anymore

The clinical learning environment of medicine is made up of four generations of professionals and trainees: Baby Boomer (born 1946–1964), Generation X (1965–1981), Generation Y/Millennials (1982–1995), and Generation Z/iGen (1996–2010). According to generational theory, people born during similar periods of time share common behaviors, attitudes, and values. At the same time, these generations are not defined by their generational stereotype and significant diversity still exists. As generations move into positions of leadership, medical education and practice are inevitably shaped by these values. This chapter reviews the values and priorities of the newest generation in medicine, iGen. It examines how medical technology, the learning environment, and work/life balance may adapt based on the advancement of this generation based on research, observation, and clinical cases.