Generation Gap in Work Ethic

Classroom 210, Waterfield Library

This study predicts that individual generations exposure/experience to technology will be correlated with work ethic. This idea is based off the apparent dimensional differences of work ethic between generations, and the implications technology has on individuals. This research is needed because it will allow researchers and organizations to have a better understanding of the ever-changing generation in the workforce today. For organizations that have noticed higher turnover rates, decreased customer satisfaction ratings, or a diminished drive in workers; this research could help fill in a piece of the puzzle as to why. As technology grows in complexity the amount of effort or thought required for certain tasks is diminished and may be one cause for the potential downward slope some organizations are experiencing today. Higher use of more sophisticated/advanced technology while growing up is correlated with a decline in work ethic seen in the Generational Gap; primarily between Generation X and Generation Y for the purposes of this study. As it is primary to the hypothesis, participants were selected based on the criteria of being 18 or above, and holding at least one paid job in their lifetime. They were recruited via recruitment letters that were posted on social media and various websites with the encouragement to pass it on to others who may be interested. Participants that consented to voluntary participation then completed an online survey consisting of three scales: experience to technology, exposure to technology, and a multidimensional measure of work ethic. Data is still currently being collected.