Unlocking the Gen-Z Learning Style: Navigating Education in the Digital Age

Welcome to the fascinating world of Gen-z learners! This diverse group is unlike any generation we have ever encountered in history. These students are true digital natives. They have never lived in a world without the benefits and pitfalls of technology and social media. In fact, this is why Gen-Z'ers are so much more socially conscious than any other generation, making them deeply concerned about making a difference in the world and standing up for social justice. They are a highly passionate group and navigating the classroom with these students needs a whole new playbook!

Digital Natives: How Can Teachers Adapt to this Gen-Z Learning Style?

Here is an interesting fact, according to a study done by Pearson, 55% of Gen-Z students say that YouTube has contributed to their education or learning in the past year. 47% of Gen-Z students use interactive learning apps or games to learn. Technology is not just a tool that they use to learn, but it is something that is integrated into all aspects of their daily lives. Google, Instagram, Snapchat and TikTok are basic necessities of their daily social lives and these social media tools are how they connect with each other and the world. Social media gives immediate feedback which in turn, makes Gen-Z learners expect immediate feedback on assignments in school. Gen-Z students also expect some autonomy on how they learn in school. As a school administrator, I am recognizing this expectation when students actually come in an give suggestions on activities they wish they could do in class. Most suggestions involve use of technology in some way shape or form. So what can teachers do to adapt their teaching styles?

1. Use Learning Management Systems For example, in my district we use Google Classroom. Teachers can post teaching resources that range from YouTube videos, lectures, or podcasts to assignments and assessments. The possibilities of teaching resources are endless and students are able to access these resources at home. When students submit assignments, many can be graded immediately giving the students more immediate feedback.

2. Use Educational Software There are so many different types of educational software to use in the classroom and it's more likely that Gen-Z Learners will show more engagement with use of these tools. In my observations of classrooms at my school I have noticed that teachers that use educational technology tools have about 40% more engagement than teachers that do not. One specific teacher uses Blooket regularly and has 100% engagement in his class. Here is a great list of Ed Tech tools to try in 2024.

3. Let students Talk! To some teachers this might be controversial, but really it's not. Long lectures from the teacher are just not the best way to get these Gen-Z Learners to understand the material. These digital natives are used to multi-tasking and they need to be able discuss what they are learning with each other. Not to mention, their attention spans have decreased and therefore need frequent breaks in the lecture. There is really no better way than letting students discuss and teach each other.

An Anxious Generation: How Can Teachers Adapt to this Gen-Z Learning Style?

Gen-Z students are not only anxious, they are also depressed. The rates are astonishing compared to the generations before them. According to a post by the Walton Family Foundation, 42% of Gen-Z students battle depression compared with only 23% of adults over the age of 25. I have seen this first hand in my own school. So what is it that teachers can do to adapt their teaching styles?

1. Authoritative Teaching Will Not Work Teachers need to work with students and engage them one on one. Empathy to their emotions is going to help Gen-Z learners be more open and trusting of their teacher, which in turn will assist them in being more successful.

2. Be Positive Focus on the student's positive behavior and not solely on negative behaviors. Use more empowering strategies that focus on what students do really well. Give verbal praise frequently, especially to those students that really struggle with behavior.

3. Accommodate Students I know that this can be difficult for some teachers, especially when it comes to deadlines. Students that are actively trying to get their work done and are showing signs of high stress need accommodations. Talk with the students and find out how they are feeling. Give them extensions if necessary. Teachers can also break down the assignments into smaller parts so it's not so intimidating to the student. Meet with the student and their parents to come up with a study plan.

The Passion for Diversity and Social Justice: How Can Teachers Adapt to this Gen-Z Learning Style?

Again, Gen-Z does not know a world that exists without social media. This in turn has lead to a high passion and conscientiousness of social justice. Students have grown up in the era of LGBTQ+, racial justice, climate change, income inequality and they are passionate about these subjects. Although, these beliefs do not always align with the how the teacher feels, especially if there is a big generational difference. I've seen differences in opinions between teachers and students cause major issues in the student-teacher relationship. It doesn't have to be this way. So how can teachers adapt?

1. Incorporate current events into lesson plans Keep content engaging to Gen-Z learners and incorporate current events and let students have time to discuss the topics. Ask critical thinking questions to get them thinking deeply about the topics. All students are unique and have different opinions and it's important that we let them express those opinions, no matter how we feel about the topic.

2. Connect Learning to Action Encourage students to take action about something they are passionate about. If they want justice for homelessness they can volunteer at a shelter or organize a blanket drive. Help them understand that they can help shape the world through actions that they make.

3. Use Diverse and Inclusive Content Try to select content, resources, materials and text that represent diverse perspectives and experiences. Students will find this more engaging and also feel more connected to the material. If students feel more connected they will understand the material easier and learn faster.
   

To wrap things up, let's do a quick recap on what makes our Gen Z learners tick!

First off, these students were practically born with smartphones in hand – they're the ultimate digital natives, navigating the online world like it's second nature. Let's not forget they're also facing some real challenges, with higher rates of anxiety and depression.

But here's the cool part – Gen Z isn't just scrolling through TikTok for fun. They're passionate about making a difference, standing up for what's right, and celebrating diversity like it's the biggest party of the year. So, as teachers, it's up to us to shake up our teaching methods to meet these awesome Gen Z vibes. We're talking about blending tech into our lessons daily, making sure mental health is always on our minds, and turning our classrooms into diverse and inclusive spaces, where every voice is heard and celebrated. So, let's roll up our sleeves, grab our laptops and maybe a few stress balls, and get ready to rock the education world Gen Z style!