Generation Z has been brought up with technology and is comfortable using devices, computers, apps, and social media. They grew up in the age of instant gratification through on-demand videos, apps … and many struggles with focus and persistence when things get tough. They are accustomed to personalized content and have a feeling that nothing is out of their reach; it’s all possible.

Hence, they embrace social learning environments, where they can be hands-on and directly involved in the learning process. They expect on-demand services that are available at any time and with low barriers to access. And they tend to be more career-focused earlier on in their college careers.

Since they are more socially active online than in real life, for them, the drama happens online. Problems with social media can impact their personal feelings and hence they have a higher tendency to feel depressed and anxious.

During this chat, the panel discussed:

* How can we connect with them to understand their needs, to guide and support them, as parents and educators?

* Are they really ‘strawberries’, less resilient than the other generations, or is it the environment that they are brought up in?

* How can we shift the way we talk or behave with Gen Z, in a way that interests and engages them?

* Do ‘traditional’ approaches like spending time together and having live conversations still work?

* How can we be creative in connecting with them on their terms, while introducing some of our flavors? How do we find that balance?