Gen Z Students Are Filling Our Online Classrooms: Do Our Teaching Methods Need a Reboot?

Abstract

Generation Z students are described as being our first “digital natives” who have grown up typing with their thumbs on smartphones and tuning out school-based interactions that do not capture their short attention spans. As Gen Z students occupy more post-secondary rosters for web based courses, they seek instructional models that combine world-class online learning environments with in-person engagement. Based on student feedback generated on principles consistent with the aims of SoTL, this article addresses the core characteristics of Gen Z students in higher education settings and offers relevant, useful strategies for meeting their needs within an online platform.