RESEARCH
RESEARCH
Topic: Generation Z and Alpha Learners in Digital Literacy for 21st Century
1. What are the key concepts that you have learned in this session?
The current generation of learners, often referred to as Generation Z and Alpha, are growing up
in a world that is increasingly reliant on digital technology. As such, digital literacy has become
an essential skill for success in the 21st century.
These learners are characterized by their ability to easily navigate the internet and social media
platforms, their preference for digital communication, and their tendency to seek out information
through online sources. It is important for educators to recognize these characteristics and adjust
their teaching strategies accordingly. This includes incorporating digital tools and resources into
the classroom, teaching critical thinking and digital citizenship skills, and promoting
collaboration and communication through digital platforms. By doing so, educators can help
prepare these learners for success in a world that is increasingly reliant on digital technology.
2. How can you integrate this in teaching and in the field of education?
Generation Z is the demographic cohort following Millennials, born between the mid-1990s and
the mid-2000s. They are sometimes referred to as "digital natives" because they grew up in a
world surrounded by technology and have never known a world without the internet or social
media. Some of the key characteristics of Generation Z include:
The impact of Generation Z on learning is significant. They have different learning preferences
than previous generations and tend to prefer interactive and visual learning experiences. They are
used to accessing information quickly and easily online, so they expect their education to be
delivered in a similar way. Generation Z is also more collaborative and values teamwork, so they
tend to learn better in group settings. Additionally, they are more likely to be self-directed
learners and use online resources to supplement their education.
Gen Z is the generation born between 1997 and 2012, who have grown up surrounded by
technology and the internet. They are characterized by their digital savviness, entrepreneurial
spirit, and desire for authenticity and diversity. As a result, they have had a significant impact on
learning, pushing for more personalized and technology-based approaches to education.
One important aspect of digital literacy for Gen Z is understanding their digital footprint, or the
trail of data they leave behind when using technology. This includes social media posts, search
history, and online interactions. It is important for Gen Z to be aware of their digital footprint and
the potential consequences of their online actions, both positive and negative.
Jamboard is a digital whiteboard tool that can be used for collaborative brainstorming, note-
taking, and idea-sharing. It allows multiple users to contribute to a virtual board in real-time,
making it a valuable tool for remote collaboration and distance learning. Gen Z students are
particularly adept at using tools like Jamboard, as they are accustomed to working with
technology and digital platforms.