Generation Z, born between 1996 and 2012, is one of the largest generations. They are more independent than previous generations, very tech-savvy and love interactive learning. A recent survey estimated that there are 75 million Gen Zers in the United States alone. And before you dismiss them as “the Snapchat generation,” keep in mind that they are also more likely than any other generation to have a savings account (63%).
The challenge for Gen Z students is the volume of information they need to consume and the need to be entertained while learning it. This means we should search for other assessments and tools for presenting material to Gen Z students and find ways to engage them while getting them trained on a skill or concept.
Research shows that Generation Z is the most digitally-savvy generation to date, but how can we present information more effectively to them?
With their rapidly evolving technology and learning styles, there are some key considerations to be aware of regarding education and Generation Z.
What is Generation Z?
Generation Z, also known as the iGeneration or Centennials, was born after 1996. This means that today’s high schoolers fall into this category, while many of tomorrow’s college students will too. The oldest members of this group have already graduated from university; they’re already in the workforce or on their way there as we speak.
What makes Generation Z so special?
The term “digital natives” is often applied to Millennials, but the truth is that most Millennials were teenagers by the time the iPhone was invented. Most members of Generation Z, by contrast, were watching YouTube videos on their parents’ devices at age 3. And the ubiquity of technology in their lives has impacted them differently from Millennials—particularly in regards to how they communicate and learn.
They’re confident and independent. A recent study found that 91% of teens surveyed felt “confident about their future,” and 89% believed that hard work would lead to success. They want to make an impact, and they’re looking for ways to do it.
How to teach Generation Z?
Universities have been adjusting to meet their needs and address their concerns. The challenge for faculty is to understand what’s different about them and adapt their teaching appropriately.
The real question is, how do we deliver education to any generation in a way that’s effective? Each generation has different learning styles, and each person has a different learning style.
- The best way to address this is by actively looking for new ways of teaching and new methods for presenting the material.
- Our students are already familiar with new technologies, so we should use this experience to work with them.
- We should also search for other assessments and tools for presenting material to Generation Z students.
- Our efforts will be rewarded when we see that they like to come to classes and are interested in learning.
- We need to consider how we teach and how we deliver our material.
- The generation Z student is a younger version of the Millennial; they are connected, always on and have a different motivation for learning than the previous generations.
- Another thing to consider when teaching this generation is that they thrive on feedback, whether it is positive or negative. They want to know what they are doing well at and what they need to improve on. You should look for opportunities during lessons or tasks to give students some feedback. This could be written or verbal.
As far as what we teach, we shouldn’t change what we teach too much based on the generation we’re teaching (though it may be necessary to tweak some content). The real task is to figure out how best to teach each generation to learn it most effectively.
Disclaimer:
The information presented on the VET Resources blog is for general guidance only. While we strive for accuracy, we cannot guarantee the completeness or timeliness of the information. VET Resources is not responsible for any errors or omissions, or for the results obtained from the use of this information. Always consult a professional for advice tailored to your circumstances.
