According to an August 21, 2014 article by Adweek, the marketing industry is beginning to focus on the generation sitting in our classrooms: Generation Z. It makes sense to me that educators need to use the information marketers have gathered in order to better reach these students. Using an infographic designed by Marketo, an interactive marketing company, I discovered many things that can help us.
1. Gen Z is resourceful. They are digital natives, and they know how to find information. Although those of us in Gen X or Y may feel comfortable with technology, this generation is immersed in it. We need to provide the tools and let them learn!
2. Gen Z is driven, curious, and focused on the future. We should have high expectations for these kids; they have high expectations of themselves. Push them harder, and they will rise to the challenge. Never set the bar low.
3. Gen Z is caring. While the generation before them is often viewed as self-centered, this generation is the opposite. They care about others and want to make a difference in the world. Let's HELP them make a difference in the world!
4. Gen Z prefers visuals to text. Don't overload them with notes on a topics. There are so many wonderful alternatives to lecture! Infographics are great, videos, hands-on activities, etc. They also like to create things, so why not let them demonstrate their knowledge in a way other than a traditional test or paper? Let them make a video, a play, write a song, paint, whatever appeals to them!
5. Gen Z is full of realists. They want facts and to see things for themselves. This group is not content with just accepting things that are told to them. You have to give them proof of what you are teaching, and show them why it matters to their future.
How do you plan to use this to make a difference in your classroom?
Sources:
Meet Generation Z: Forget Everything You Know About Millennials by Sparks and Honey.
Oster, Erik. "This Gen Z Infographic Can Help Marketers Get Wise to the Future ." Adweek. N.p., 21 Aug 2014. Web. 22 Jan 2015.
