The latest generation to hit consumerism is Gen Z. As technology has evolved, so too has the learning style of individuals according to their generation. Mark McCrindle has defined generation Z’s as collaborative, innovative and responsive. They work in an open book world with facilitators rather than teachers using devices rather than pen and paper. Education is no longer life-stage dependant (at the start of life, before the career commences), but a life-long reality. There is a shift from a teacher centred approach to learner adaptive, from content driven to engagement focused and from formal delivery to more interactive environments. Who are they?
Gen Z – born from 1995 – 2009, the rising generation of consumers.
Just how big is this market?
In the US this generation makes up 25.9% of the United States population and contribute $44 billion to the American economy. In an Australian Bureau of Statistics report from 2014, this group had increased by 6.4% in the 5 years leading up to 2014 where they represented 19% of the population. In the US, they will account for 1 third of the population by 2020. It’s a definite demographic to watch out for.
How do they learn and access education?
As technology has evolved, so too has the learning style of individuals according to their generation. Mark McCrindle has defined generation Z’s learning style as collaborative, innovative and responsive. They work in an open book world with facilitators rather than teachers using devices rather than pen and paper.
Gen Z seeks simplicity and flexibility and this is how technology appeals to them. They are at one with the internet and it’s no surprise why as they were born when Google was! Check out the tech timeline below:
What can we do to get their attention?
ASQA has released a new audit model shifting to a focus on the learner’s lifecycle. This fits in well with how to get the best outcomes from students. Take a look at the model below which outlines the difference between the way Baby Boomers were taught and how we should train and assess Gen Z. There is a definite shift from teacher centred to learner adaptive, from content driven to engagement focused and from formal delivery to more interactive environments.
Tools to assist with learning adoption
The learning pyramid really highlights that a mix of mediums are required to learn. It also highlights that practice of a skill or subject offers a greater retention rate to that of reading or listening. Therefore practical assessments or placements as a trainee or apprentice are highly important.
For a printable version of the tools above please contact marketing@cloudassess.comm.au
