I am hearing the word Entitlement a lot these days. Mostly, in reference to the generation of students moving up in the world. I don't know what to make of it or even exactly what it means. But I know when I am frustrated in my interactions with students, I think," Grrrrr. These kids and their Entitlement."
So I thought I would blog about it. Well, not just me. I will offer one take, and my co-author will tackle another. We are still working on our blog names. Any ideas??
Here's my initial take on Entitlement. The best way to explain it is to offer a few examples:
1. Students thinking it is reasonable to text once per class period.
2. Hats worn indoors, even against dress code policy.
3. Phones used at a school throughout the school day even when they are supposed to only be used at lunch and break.
4. Texting at the dinner table.
5. Answering the phone in the middle of a presentation.
So here goes my initial attempt at a definition for Entitlement:
A mindset in which youth and technology negate or undermine behavioral standards and ethical consideration of others.
I will probably tinker with and revise this as this project proceeds.
What do you think? Any personal encounters with Entitlement? And yes, I believe it does deserve to be capitalized!
