Journal of Accounting and Taxation Studies

Abstract

Groups formed by individuals born at about the same
time and possessing common characteristics are called generations. Generations
are basically categorized as traditionalists, baby boomers, generation X, Y and
Z. Individuals born between the years 1980-2000 fall into the category of
generation Y and they have been the subject of research in numerous recent
studies. The main elements that play a role in the effectiveness of the
educational process are the characteristics and the interest levels of the
students. The developments experienced at the social level through technology also
change the habits of learning along with the characteristics of the
individuals. The structure of accounting science is basically composed of body
of rules and like other fields, the science of accounting is affected from this
change at the instructor-learner level. When technology use, habits, mobile and
mobility perceptions of generation Y are considered, there are likely to be
some special cases between accounting education and this generation.

In this study, the concept of generation, classification of generations and
differentiating characteristics of generation Y were examined and the structure
of accounting education and the methods that can be followed in accounting
education were mentioned in the context of generation Y. Then, the characteristics of the
undergraduates of generation Y at the Management Faculty of Alanya
Alaaddin Keykubat University together with their perceptions about the
accounting course, thoughts about the teaching techniques and methods related
to accounting education were observed by survey method. Finally, suggestions
were presented about how generation Y students can be provided with accounting
education more effectively. The findings obtained show that it is a requirement
for particularly, universities and educational community and also all
stakeholders including politicians and local governments to consider the
characteristics of generations that they are in touch with.