What to Know About Generation Z: Age, Traits, and Classroom

We currently have Generation Z in our upper classrooms, and this comes with a new set of characteristics that teachers need to understand in order to engage them effectively. But what exactly does it mean to be part of Generation Z? Broadly speaking, this generation consists of those born between the late 1990s and the early 2010s. Often referred to as “digital natives,” members of Gen Z have never known a world without the internet or mobile devices, which has deeply influenced how they learn, communicate, and approach life in general.

While many misconceptions paint Generation Z in a negative light—something we’ve seen in the way previous generations have critiqued younger cohorts—this generation holds an incredible potential to bring about positive change. In fact, many of their characteristics make them uniquely positioned to reshape the world for the better, particularly when compared to the Baby Boomers, Gen Xers, and Millennials who came before them.

The Generational Context

Before we dive into what makes Generation Z special, it’s helpful to look at how generational differences have historically shaped the way we live. In the United States, social scientists typically define generations based on shared characteristics and formative events. For example, Baby Boomers, born between 1946 and 1964, were shaped by post-World War II prosperity. They were known for their traditional work ethic and focus on financial security, which influenced their life choices significantly.

Generation X, on the other hand, often sought work-life balance. Gen Xers, born between 1965 and 1980, grew up in an era when the economy was shifting, and many families had two working parents. This generation is more likely to seek flexible, non-traditional roles in the workforce, often working from home or in freelance capacities. Millennials, or Generation Y, born between 1980 and 1994, were significantly impacted by the Great Recession, which instilled in them a desire for work-life balance but also made them particularly focused on personal well-being and financial planning.

Our younger learners are Generation Alpha, who also have their own learning tendencies.

There is also a new classification called the “Xennials” who were born in the birth years from roughly 1977-1985. Generally, these folks don’t really associate fully with Gen X or Millennials but have some traits of both (they have been fondly nicknamed the “Oregon Trail” generation….if this made you laugh, you’re probably a Xennial because you get it).

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With the arrival of Generation Z, we see a further evolution. Gen Z has already lived through recessions and witnessed the student loan debt crisis firsthand. Many of them are highly skeptical of the traditional path of pursuing a college degree, fearing the burden of student loans. Instead, they are more entrepreneurial, and they’ve developed a pragmatic outlook on life, financial security, and the future.

Why Generation Z Stands Out

As educators, we often get so sucked into just the concepts of having students in our classroom, that we forget that they are generational. Each category learns, interacts, and thrives differently, and Generation Z is a diverse generation, no doubt.

So, what is it that makes Generation Z stand out? For one thing, they are the first generation to grow up in a world where digital tools, mobile devices, and the internet are not novelties—they are simply part of everyday life. Members of Generation Z are incredibly tech-savvy and know how to leverage digital platforms for learning, socializing, and entertainment. This makes them markedly different from Millennials, who were teenagers when the digital age began, and Gen Xers, who came of age before the widespread use of the internet.

One thing to note is that Generation Z has also seen the pitfalls of technology. Unlike Millennials, who were early adopters and may have overshared online before understanding the long-term consequences, members of Gen Z are hyper-aware of their digital footprint. This explains their fondness for apps like Snapchat, where content is temporary and less likely to be permanent on the internet.

Interestingly, while Millennials were the pioneers of social media, Generation Z uses these platforms in more sophisticated ways. According to a recent Pew Research Center survey, Gen Z individuals are highly selective about how they present themselves online. They are keenly aware of the potential long-term effects of their digital lives on future employment opportunities and personal reputation.

The Socially Conscious Generation

Another defining trait of Generation Z is their passion for social issues. Whether it’s climate change, mental health, or racial and gender equality, members of Generation Z are determined to make a difference. Unlike previous generations who may have focused on incremental change, Gen Z is action-oriented. They don’t want to simply raise awareness about homelessness or global warming—they want to solve these problems.

This shift is likely due to the fact that Generation Z has grown up in a world where social responsibility is highly visible. Social media sites, particularly platforms like Instagram and TikTok, have provided them with a space to engage in political and social issues from a young age. This generation has been exposed to significant global challenges, such as climate change and school shootings, leading them to develop a strong sense of civic engagement.

Moreover, Generation Z is the most diverse generation in U.S. history, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. Many members of Gen Z come from ethnic minorities, and they are more open-minded about issues like gender identity and mental health than earlier generations. This diversity has shaped their worldview and made them highly inclusive, particularly when it comes to solving social and political issues.

Generation Z in the Classroom

Now, let’s consider how these generational characteristics translate into the classroom. Traditional methods of teaching that may have worked for Baby Boomers or even Millennials are not going to be as effective with Generation Z. This generation has a drastically different attention span and they prefer to engage with content in more interactive ways.

Members of Generation Z don’t want to be passive learners; they want to be actively involved in their education. They learn best when they can interact with the material and see how it connects to real-world problems. This is why student-centered learning is so effective for this generation. Unlike teacher-led instruction, which is more passive, student-centered learning encourages students to take ownership of their education. It allows them to engage with the material in a way that feels relevant and meaningful.

This approach is particularly crucial because we’re preparing these students for a workforce that will look vastly different from what older generations have experienced. Many of the jobs Gen Z will enter don’t even exist yet, and they will need to be highly adaptable and tech-savvy to succeed.

Those young people in Z Generation have never known a life without the internet. They grew up with technology around them, so it isn’t a novelty to them. They see the mistakes their Millennial counterparts have made with technology and are VERY conscious of their digital footprint in regards to their mobile devices (which is also why they love Snapchat so much!).

TV? They barely watch it in real time. Cell phones? Most of them receive one before their 12th birthday (and generally, it’s a smartphone). Need to look something up? They’re chronic YouTubers. They are digital natives and know no difference.

There is a great article from Business Insider that breaks down exactly what Generation Z is like. The most compelling quote from that piece is from a 15-year-old, who said:

“Everything in our generation is immediate. Since we have been raised in an age where texts and messages can be sent in the blink of an eye, we are less patient than other generations because we are used to having instant gratification. But our generation is also very determined to show that we are capable of real thoughts and using the technology and communication methods we have been given for making change, despite what older generations expect from us.”

Generation Z is the compromise that many have been waiting for.

Generation Z has already lived through a recession (or two). They’ve seen the effects of the student loan debt crisis. They have a different outlook on “what it takes”. They don’t want to fall into the same traps, and therefore their future outlook is different…and their entrepreneurial spirit is strong.

That’s not the only difference between them. They are passionate. They don’t want to help….they want to solve, especially in terms of social issues. Those in Z Generation don’t want to feed the homeless…they want to put an end to homelessness….period. Social injustice? How can we fix it? Climate change? Let’s do something. Big picture issue? Let’s figure out how to make it right.

They are catalysts for positive change and as the future of work changes as many people now work from home, etc., the life of Gen Z adults is going to be a life experience like no other.

This changes the entire dynamic in the classroom.

Teaching Tools for Generation Z

One of the best ways to engage Generation Z in the classroom is by using digital tools. As previously mentioned, this generation is incredibly comfortable with technology, and educators can use this to their advantage. For example, flipping the classroom—a method where students learn the basic material at home and use class time for hands-on learning—works exceptionally well with Gen Z.

The older, more traditional methods simply will lose these kids quickly (not to mention, the average attention span these days is 8 SECONDS).

According to an article from EdWeek by Lauraine Genota titled Why Generation Z Learners Prefer YouTube Lessons Over Printed Books, she completed a recent study where every single survey completed showed that Generation Z found YouTube to be their preferred method of information delivery.

In a more modernized teaching model like the flipped classroom, students can watch instructional videos at their own pace, allowing them to pause, rewind, and review the material as needed. This caters to their preference for on-demand, customizable learning. Tools like EdPuzzle make this process even more interactive by embedding questions into videos, ensuring that students are actively engaging with the content rather than passively watching.

“Teaching Generation Z”: The Student-Centered World Podcast

Generation Z’s preference for videos doesn’t mean they’re lazy learners. On the contrary, they’re simply wired differently.  There are a MILLION different ways to do this. You can use videos from the internet that are already created. You can make your own Podcasts or even a Voki. 

I also LOVE LOVE LOVE EdPuzzle. With EdPuzzle, you can create videos (or use ones that are already on there) directly from YouTube, etc., add questions, and the students can work at them at their own pace. Check out our whole write-up on flipping the classroom with EdPuzzle here.

Encouraging Creativity in the Classroom

Another effective way to engage Generation Z is by allowing them to create their own content. This generation thrives on creativity and innovation, and they are more likely to be engaged when they have the freedom to express themselves.

One favorite example of this was when my students created a documentary on World War II. Each student had a different aspect of the war to discuss, and then I compiled all the pieces together into one video, popped it into EdPuzzle, added one question for each student’s work, and then we watched the whole thing. They LOVED it.

By allowing them to choose the format—whether it’s video, podcast, or digital presentation—you cater to their strengths while also teaching them critical research and communication skills.

In my own experience, I’ve seen shy students who rarely speak up in class come alive when given the chance to express their thoughts through video. The ability to review and comment on their peers’ work also creates a sense of community and encourages deeper engagement with the material.

Take a look at how easy this is to set up in your room (ad):

Creating these opportunities for students to express themselves doesn’t just help them academically—it also helps them develop essential skills for the future. Gen Z is growing up in a digital world where content creation is a valuable skill, whether in the context of social media, marketing, or education. By giving them the tools to create, we’re preparing them for a workforce that values creativity and innovation.

The Importance of Social and Emotional Learning

As we’ve seen, Generation Z is not only concerned with academic success but also with social responsibility. They are passionate about issues like climate change, mental health, and economic security. For this reason, incorporating social and emotional learning (SEL) into the curriculum is vital. SEL teaches students how to manage their emotions, set goals, and establish positive relationships, all of which are crucial skills for Gen Z as they navigate a world that is increasingly complex and interconnected.

Generation Z has grown up in an era marked by unprecedented challenges, including economic instability, political division, and mental health crises. The pressures they face are different from those experienced by earlier generations. According to Deloitte Touche Tohmatsu Limited, Generation Z is at the forefront of a behavioral health crisis, with increasing rates of anxiety and depression among young people today. As educators, it’s essential to address these issues head-on by creating safe spaces where students feel supported and valued.

One way to do this is by fostering a student-centered environment that encourages empathy, collaboration, and open dialogue. When students feel that their voices matter and that they are contributing to meaningful discussions, they are more likely to engage deeply with the material and develop a sense of purpose in their learning.

Preparing Generation Z for the Future

Ultimately, our goal as educators is to prepare Generation Z for a world that is vastly different from the one we grew up in. The jobs they will enter in the coming years may not even exist yet, and the challenges they will face—whether related to climate change, economic security, or social justice—will require them to think critically, act responsibly, and adapt quickly.

Generation Z has already shown that they are up to the task. They are the most well-educated generation in history, with more members of Generation Z attending higher education than any previous cohort. They are also the most diverse generation, bringing a range of perspectives and experiences to the table. As social scientists and educators, it’s our job to harness their potential and guide them toward success.

By embracing a student-centered model that prioritizes creativity, critical thinking, and emotional intelligence, we can help Generation Z become the leaders they are destined to be.

Let’s not be the generation of educators that hold on to outdated methods simply because “it’s the way it’s always been done.”

Instead, let’s be the ones who adapt, innovate, and propel our students toward a future where they can truly make a difference.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Generation Z is a unique and dynamic cohort that brings fresh perspectives and new energy to the classroom. They are digital pioneers, socially conscious, and eager to make a positive impact on the world. As educators, it’s our responsibility to meet them where they are by adopting teaching methods that align with their learning preferences and values.

We’re teachers because we’re supposed to not only be teaching content but also preparing them for the world that awaits them. if you’re not challenging them and teaching them how to ask the questions, how to find the answers, and how to use technology in an increasingly technological world you’re doing them a disservice. Now, I’m not saying that you have to have this master’s in technology and know all of this, but there are ways to go about it that will benefit your students way, way, way after they leave the walls of your classroom.

By using tools like EdPuzzle and other digital platforms, we can create a more engaging and interactive learning environment. By encouraging creativity and fostering social and emotional learning, we can help them navigate the challenges of the digital age. And by preparing them for a future that looks different from the past, we can ensure that Generation Z is ready to take on the world—and change it for the better.

Let’s embrace the opportunity to teach this new generation and help them become the innovators, leaders, and change-makers that the world needs.

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This article was originally published on August 19, 2018.