The third-wave society!

“Man is a slow, sloppy, and brilliant thinker; computers are fast, accurate, and stupid.” ~ John Pfeiffer In 1980, Alvin Toffler, a prominent futurist, classified human civilization into three major phases. The first and second waves included the agricultural and industrial revolutions while the third wave referred to the computer-based information revolution. The third wave saw different generations, each depicting unique traits. This editorial is a humble reminder to all teachers from Generation X and Y training Generation Z students to treat Generation Alpha children, that it is important to be aware of evolving the changes and adopt newer teaching and learning strategies. Generation X (born 1965–1980) teachers have a conservative outlook, value independence, and individuality but also cherish teamwork. Generation Y (born 1981–1996), also called “digital natives” or “millennials,” are booksmart and tech-savvy but need clear instructions at work. They are constantly in pursuit of innovation and value teamwork over hierarchy. Communication is a key area where Gen X and Gen Y teachers differ. Gen X prefers direct communication such as inperson, face-to-face interactions, and phone calls. Millennials who grew up with technology love quick communication through instant messaging, texts, and social media. In spite of communication style differences, both generations are open to learning to different degrees. Gen X are the “digital immigrants” who accept the need to learn new practices using digital technologies and Gen Y are ready to teach them. In a college or institution, it becomes important for the Gen X senior faculty to create a conducive workplace with the principal focus being team building among colleagues and facilitating learning for the students. Generation Z (born 1997–2012), also known as the “iGeneration” or “centennials,” are the “connected people” who are dependent on the internet. Google, Instagram, Twitter, Facebook, YouTube, WhatsApp, and smartphones are an integral part of their life. They have strong virtual communication skills but struggle a bit in socializing with people outside this virtual realm. The short attention span of Gen Z is what makes them hate long didactic lectures. They are able to multitask and skim for highlights of information without gaining an in-depth understanding of a subject as expected by Gen X teachers. Gen X and Y teachers can consider the following while training Gen Z students: a) Feed this “visually orientated generation” with media-based instructional videos b) Allow the use of learning modules available on mobile apps c) Feed their “snack media” habits (getting titbits of information browsing multiple platforms simultaneously) by creating short learning modules and d) Provide inperson communication development programs to improve interpersonal skills. Generation Alpha (born 2010–2025), also called the “screenagers,” are the most tech-savvy children. They learned how to use digital devices before they could actually read or write. They are the hi-tech digital natives, who have increased exposure to technology and want instant gratification. They do not enjoy the process and have a fleeting attention span. The following are considered while treating Gen Alpha children: a) Use intraoral scanners, computer-aided design/computer-aided manufacturing systems, and three-dimensional printing to arouse their curiosity and also actively involve them through the dental treatment process b) Use of audiovisual distractions, video modeling, smartphones, and game applications as effective behavior guidance strategies. The current trend leans toward addressing behavior management problems of the current generation of children with creative ways of using gadgets or virtual platforms. It is imperative now more than ever for faculty of institutions to make their trainees understand that there is no universal formula in treating children and this current generation has to be handled with the care they need and not just gadgets. Each generation has evolved with its own unique intangible strengths. The current teachers have the responsibility of passing on not just knowledge but also the subtle depths of their wisdom along with trending digital strengths to enrich the learning experience and resilience in evolving future generations. It is believed that the illiterates of the 21st century are not those who cannot read or write, but those who cannot learn, unlearn, and relearn. Every literate person employs the combined communication and information power of Gen XYZ in behavior-guiding Gen Alpha children and does not just rely on newer and newer technology-based methods alone. Gen X literate,