And it's happening faster than you think. Soon, they will be starting college. Who are they and what will they stand for?
Born in 2010 and beyond, Generation Alpha, or Gen A, is a new generation of digital natives who are growing up with technology as an integral part of their lives. With the oldest members currently around 12 or 13 years old, Gen A is still in the early stages of development, but already demonstrating a deep familiarity with technology that is unparalleled by any previous generation.
However, what sets Gen A, or Gen AI, apart is their experience with AI as the new normal, which is shaping their experiences and expectations in ways that previous generations could only imagine.
Gen A is growing up in a world where AI-powered devices and services are becoming increasingly prevalent in their daily lives, from smart home assistants to autonomous cars. As a result, they are more comfortable with AI than any previous generation and may be more accepting of AI and automation as they grow older. They may also be more open to the idea of AI as a tool for improving their lives, such as in personalized healthcare or more efficient transportation systems.
What sets this generation apart will be it's connection to AI.
As for when Gen A will enter college and the workforce, it will depend on a number of factors, including their individual circumstances, education, and career paths. However, based on current trends and projections, it's likely that Gen A will enter college in the late 2020s and early 2030s, with the oldest members of the generation starting around 2028-2030. Similarly, they will likely start entering the workforce in the late 2030s and early 2040s, with the first members of the generation graduating from college and starting their careers around 2040-2042.
The Generation of Problem Solvers
What's clear is that Gen A will play a significant role in shaping the future of work and society as a whole. As they grow up in a world that is constantly evolving and changing, they will bring new perspectives, skills, and experiences to the table. With their deep familiarity and comfort with technology, including AI, they may be uniquely positioned to leverage these tools to solve problems, explore new opportunities, and navigate the complex challenges of a rapidly changing world.
But Some Question There Well Being With AI
Of course, there are also concerns about the potential negative impacts of AI on Gen A's development and wellbeing. For example, there are worries about the impact of social media algorithms on their mental health and the potential for AI to exacerbate existing inequalities in society. As such, it will be important to continue to monitor and address these issues as Gen A grows older and begins to shape the future.
A New Frontier
In many ways, Gen A represents a new frontier in the ongoing relationship between humanity and technology. By embracing AI as an integral part of their lives, they are shaping a future that is both exciting and uncertain, full of possibilities and potential pitfalls. Whatever the future may hold, there is no doubt that Gen A will be at the forefront of this new technological age, forging a path forward that is uniquely their own.
