The incoming class of 2017 is the last one born in the 1990's. That is a quirky statistic, aimed at pleasing instead of illuminating the mind. Behind it lurks a larger trend, however: in two years, the incoming class will have been born into a post-9/11 world, shaped by different attitudes, distinct behaviors, and unique challenges. Is higher education prepared for Generation Z?
Generation Z - typically, described as those born post-1995 - are the current generation of college-bound students, with the oldest already entering the workforce. According to the U.S. Census Bureau, Gen Z makes up 25% of the population, outnumbering Millennials and Baby Boomers, with an annual consumption of $44 billion.
"Here's a starting point: Gen-Z are NOT millennials."
As educators, how much do we really know about them? Here's a starting point: Gen-Z are NOT millennials. They were born with the internet at their fingertips and are extremely comfortable with rapidly evolving technology. Their use of social media depicted below shows vastly different preferences from millennials:
According to CMO/Adobe research, 79% of Generation Z consumers display symptoms of emotional distress when kept away from their personal electronic devices. Mobile technology is not a phenomenon with this generation - it is an inherent part of their lives. As Boomers, Gen-X, and Millennials are in positions of authority on college campuses, it is important to remember that attitudes, trends, and behaviors considered negative by prior generations may be the complete opposite in this day and age. As The Guardian newspaper noted, "...co-creation isn’t just about working with students. It’s also about challenging preconceptions. Like [Apple, Google etc.], try getting into your students’ smartphones. But remember, it’s not all about digital developments ... The ubiquity of online communications means a rare delivery through the post can have a bigger impact than ever before." It's clear that institutions need to be present where students are - on their mobile devices. But we also need to think about shaping experiences, as those matter to Gen Z students. How is your institution getting ready for a new generation of students? Leave your comments below.
Designed with the Gen-Z student in mind, Ready Education is the industry's fastest-growing mobile platform, adopted at over 350 institutions. Our platform is designed to support student success by unifying campus resources -- LMS, co-curricular, athletics, clubs/orgs, events and much more -- within a branded, integrated, college app. (readyeducation.com)