OCA “WACS” Global Challenge - Le Cordon Bleu

Using Assessment as a
Learning Tool for
“Generation Y” Learners
By Chef Kirk T. Bachmann, M.Ed., CEC, CCP,
Vice President of Education – Le Cordon Bleu Schools North America
“... as it turns out career-focused
culinary arts and hospitality
education is uniquely suited for
this generation (Gen Y)
of students.”
Our student population is truly diverse—with learners from all age
groups, backgrounds, and educational levels. But one group, those from
the so-called Generation Y, is of particular interest to me when it comes
to assessment practices.
Generation Y (or Gen Y) refers to the 80 million or so young
Americans who were born between 1978 and 1995. This population
represents the future of our industry, so it is vital that we understand
their educational needs. And, as it turns out, career-focused culinary
arts and hospitality education is uniquely suited for this generation of
students. Why?
Gen Y learners tend to perform best in fast environments where
they are required to multitask and work collaboratively; and while they
prefer to work in teams, they also demand individual feedback and
focused attention. These learners prefer hands-on work over lectures
and expect technology to play a part in the educational process.
Furthermore, Gen Y learners need to know that what they learn in the
classroom can directly benefit them on the job.
For these reasons, Gen Y students can greatly benefit from assessment
methods that deal directly with performance and the achievement of
specific learning outcomes.
When selecting a methodology, there are several core questions
which should be addressed:
• What technique, skill, idea or concept is being assessed?
• Why does this need to be assessed? What value does it bring?
• How does the assessment process support students in their
larger educational goals?
• Does the assessment process actively engage and encourage
students to succeed?
The expectations and values of Gen Y learners are truly different
from other previous generations – and it's important to realize this and
embrace the differences. In doing so, we show them that we care about
their own personal and professional success. ■
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