A Cross-Generational Analysis of College Students’ Perceptions of Leadership Styles, Interactions, and Expectations in Higher Education
Advisor Information
Chin-Chung Chao
Location
UNO Criss Library, Room 232
Presentation Type
Oral Presentation
Start Date
7-3-2014 10:45 AM
End Date
7-3-2014 11:00 AM
Abstract
For years scholars have been investigating the generational differences that exist among people. One aspect that has been investigated is how a person’s generation impacts the workplace. Researchers have explored generational preferences among workers with regards to: work expectations, leadership preferences, and work ethic. While scholars continue to address this topic, another area needs further investigation. Today, various generations can be found in the collegiate classroom. However, research has been inadequate about engaging in the generational difference that exists among students. Specifically, student’s generational expectations in regards to preferred professorial leadership style. For this reason, a pilot study was conducted and data was collected from students at a Midwest university. Participants were asked to complete a survey, which was compiled from the LMX and Leadership Style Approach questionnaires (as cited in Northouse, 2013). Findings supported previous literature as it pertains to generational preferences in the workplace. These findings also provide a starting point to understanding the generational expectations found in college students with regards to their preferred professorial leadership style. However, additional investigation is needed in order to understand this topic and report significant findings. Therefore, this study will continue to explore the work started by the pilot study in order to further understand students’ generational expectations and preferences for professorial leadership in the classroom.
A Cross-Generational Analysis of College Students’ Perceptions of Leadership Styles, Interactions, and Expectations in Higher Education
UNO Criss Library, Room 232
For years scholars have been investigating the generational differences that exist among people. One aspect that has been investigated is how a person’s generation impacts the workplace. Researchers have explored generational preferences among workers with regards to: work expectations, leadership preferences, and work ethic. While scholars continue to address this topic, another area needs further investigation. Today, various generations can be found in the collegiate classroom. However, research has been inadequate about engaging in the generational difference that exists among students. Specifically, student’s generational expectations in regards to preferred professorial leadership style. For this reason, a pilot study was conducted and data was collected from students at a Midwest university. Participants were asked to complete a survey, which was compiled from the LMX and Leadership Style Approach questionnaires (as cited in Northouse, 2013). Findings supported previous literature as it pertains to generational preferences in the workplace. These findings also provide a starting point to understanding the generational expectations found in college students with regards to their preferred professorial leadership style. However, additional investigation is needed in order to understand this topic and report significant findings. Therefore, this study will continue to explore the work started by the pilot study in order to further understand students’ generational expectations and preferences for professorial leadership in the classroom.