What Is Generation On A Tightrope

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Generation on a Tightrope: A Critical Review
Katherine Sullivan
The University of Southern Mississippi

Generation on a Tightrope: A Critical Review
Generation On a Tightrope (2012) examines the framework of today’s college student. From the outside looking in, Arthur Levine and Diane Dean conducted a study of the millennial generation to offer an interpretation of the elements that define their existence. The researchers set out to “discuss the nature of their world, the ways in which it will likely flower, develop, and mature in years ahead; and the demands that it will make on its citizens” (Levine & Dean, 2012, p.155). The study was meant to educate current and emerging professionals who will interact and aid in the process of their overall development. To achieve this, a range of societal, personal, and cultural topics were discussed, throughout the text, in hopes of providing a better understanding to prepare both professionals and students for successful interaction.
Methodology
Beginning their research, Levine and Dean targeted undergraduate students from a range of higher education institutions. 26 colleges and universities, nationwide, were examined; where an inclusivity of data was collected from community, private, and public environments (Levine & Dean, 2012, p.207). Further, it was designed to represent “the diversity of higher education” in terms of “size, control, location, degree level, demographics, and religious orientation” (Levine & Dean, 2012, p.206). This variety aided to present breadth and uniqueness to the cultures that are present throughout the United States. The data collected from each environment also prevented the bias that might exist if one region is overrepresented.
Levine...

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...htrope; several alternatives and criticism can be provided. Levine and Dean are not members of the millennial generation. Due to this, the data collected and further examined by them can be assessed in a predisposed manner. This bias is not intentional; but unavoidable in any area of research—especially qualitative methods.
Within additional themes for observation, spirituality and the reality of rising tuition could add supportive evidence to the framework of the millennial generation. Spirituality was mentioned in a small segment of the text, but the effectiveness of its influence in student development is a major aspect. This age of collegiate members utilize spirituality to help define their place in the world. Personally, the act of spiritual belief provides a sense of comfort in a society of so much change. The observation of this theme would only enhance

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