Understanding Generation Z,The New Generation of Learners: A Technological-Motivational-Learning Theory

Abstract

Generation Z is the new generation of technologically dependent learners, the most diverse and career-oriented individuals.Understanding the traits and characteristics of this generation is essential to describing and analyzing the societal change brought by Gen Z. The generated new theories will help to address the knowledge gap and can help design the curriculum for the new generation of learners. An axiomatic deductive approach following the steps from Padua (2012) was utilized in this study. Three axioms were constructed, namely: (1) Generation Z’s life depends on technology; (2) Generation Z has different perceptions of life fulfillment; and (3) Generation Z is independent and learner-centered with a short attention span. From these three axioms, seven propositions were formulated, namely: (1) E-learning should be used to facilitate the teaching-learning approach for Gen Z; (2) Interpersonal relationships should develop among Gen Z; (3) Develop a multimodal teaching-learning approach to address the diversity of Gen Z learners; (4) Develop a curriculum that focuses on applying and contextualizing of concepts rather than memorization; (5) Mental health and gender equality awareness should be included in the curriculum; (6) Interactive approach and healthy competition should be integrated into the teaching-learning approach; and (7) Orientation on career and financial literacy should be taught at home and school. With these, a theory was developed and termed the technological-motivational-learning theory for the new generation of learners, Gen Z. This theory is useful to fully understand the learning style of Gen Z to avoid mismatching the teaching-learning approach.