Generational differences among associate-degree health students: Retention, academic achievement, and learning perceptions

Abstract

This research study addresses the problem of reduced retention and academic success of multigenerational allied health students at a Midwestern community college. Decreasing health science student retention and academic achievement can result in a shortage of healthcare practitioners to meet society’s growing needs. The purpose of this study was to examine differences among generational cohorts of allied health students at the institution related to retention rates and academic achievement. Results identified no significant differences among generational cohorts for academic achievement. With Baby Boomers as the reference, the Gen X and Millennial groups were significantly more likely to be retained while the Gen Z group did not differ. The results highlight allied health students' homogeneity regardless of their generational category.