Different Generations of
Learners
JULIET L. PACURSA,
PhD
Instructor
Different Generations of
Learners
JULIET L. PACURSA, PhD
Instructor
Introduction
● Effective teachers need to understand and
appreciate the learners’ needs, backgrounds,
interests, and learning styles (Brookfield, 2016).
● In fact, understanding the differences in various
generations and how they perform in higher
education classrooms can help educators better
understand, educate, and address the needs of
the learners.
Introduction
● According to Roberts et al. (2021), “a generation
is defined as individuals of a particular age group
who share common experiences, values,
communities, and sense of identity”
● Generational differences also show differences
between various generations in terms of
historical experiences, economic and social
conditions, techno- logical advances, and other
societal changes (Wallace, 2016).
General Characteristics of Learners from
Different Generations
• Generations are often categorized based on the common
experiences, events, and cultural shifts that shape the
lives of people born during particular periods.
• Each generation has unique characteristics that can
influence their learning preferences, styles, and
behaviors.
General Characteristics of Learners from
Different Generations
The Greatest Generation: Born roughly between
1901 and 1927, this generation experienced the
Great Depression and World War II. They are often
characterized by their resilience, resourcefulness,
and strong work ethic.
The Silent Generation: Born between 1928 and
1945, this generation grew up during the post-war
period and experienced economic hardship and
social conformity. They are often seen as
traditionalists and value stability and security.
General Characteristics of Learners from
Different Generations
Baby Boomers: Born between 1946 and 1964, following
the end of World War II, this generation experienced a
significant increase in birth rates. They are associated with
social change, economic prosperity, and the counterculture
movement of the 1960s and 1970s.
• Prefer structured learning environments with clear
objectives and goals.
• Tend to value traditional forms of education and may
prefer face-to-face interactions.
• Appreciate hierarchical structures and respect for
authority.
• May be more accustomed to linear learning paths and
sequential instruction.
General Characteristics of Learners from
Different Generations
Generation X: Born roughly between 1965 and 1980,
members of this generation grew up during a time of
societal upheaval, economic uncertainty, and rapid
technological advancement. They are often seen as
independent, adaptable, and skeptical of authority.
• Independent and self-directed learners who value
flexibility and autonomy.
• Comfortable with technology but may prefer a blend
of traditional and digital learning methods.
• Appreciate opportunities for hands-on, experiential
learning.
• Desire immediate applicability of learning to their
personal or professional lives.
General Characteristics of Learners from
Different Generations
Millennials (or Generation Y): Born between approximately
1981 and 1996, this generation came of age at the turn of
the millennium. They are characterized by their familiarity
with technology, multiculturalism, and a desire for work-life
balance.
• Technologically savvy and prefer learning experiences
that leverage digital tools and platforms.
• Value collaboration, teamwork, and social learning
environments.
• Seek opportunities for continuous feedback and
personalized learning experiences.
• Prefer learning that aligns with their values and
contributes to their personal growth and development.
General Characteristics of Learners from
Different Generations
Generation Z (or Zoomers): Born roughly between 1997
and 2012, this generation is the first to grow up entirely in
the digital age. They are known for their comfort with
technology, social media fluency, and emphasis on
individuality.
• Highly adept with digital technology and prefer learning
experiences that are interactive and multimedia-rich.
• Prefer bite-sized, on-demand learning content that can
be accessed anytime, anywhere.
• Thrive in collaborative and social learning environments,
often leveraging social media for learning purposes.
• Prefer learning that is authentic, relevant, and addresses
real-world problems or issues.
General Characteristics of Learners from
Different Generations
Generation Alpha: Born from around 2013 onwards, this generation is
still very young, but they are expected to be the most technologically
immersed and globally connected generation yet, growing up in an era of
artificial intelligence, virtual reality, and unprecedented connectivity.
• Still very young, but early indications suggest they will be even more
technologically fluent and accustomed to digital learning environments
than previous generations.
• Likely to prefer highly interactive and immersive learning experiences,
such as virtual reality simulations or gamified learning platforms.
• May have shorter attention spans and benefit from microlearning
techniques that deliver content in brief, digestible chunks.
General Characteristics of Learners from
Different Generations
Generation Alpha: Born from around 2013 onwards, this generation is
still very young, but they are expected to be the most technologically
immersed and globally connected generation yet, growing up in an era of
artificial intelligence, virtual reality, and unprecedented connectivity.
• Still very young, but early indications suggest they will be even more
technologically fluent and accustomed to digital learning environments
than previous generations.
• Likely to prefer highly interactive and immersive learning experiences,
such as virtual reality simulations or gamified learning platforms.
• May have shorter attention spans and benefit from microlearning
techniques that deliver content in brief, digestible chunks.
The result of this review is in the form of differences in the
characteristics of learners based on the generation of birth. The
greatest generation (GI) focuses on initiatives in learning. The
veteran (silent) generation focuses on standardizing learning. Baby
boomers are focusing on learning independence. Generation X
focuses on learning balance. Generation Y (millennials) focus on
controlling learning independently. Generation Z focuses on abstract
learning constructions. The alpha generation focuses on creativity.
The last (likely) beta generation focuses on complex learning
processes with the help of surrounding artificial intelligence. This
review is expected to contribute through exposure that can be an
alternative reference for the world of education.- Learner Characteristics
based on Generational Differences (Zufar, 2023
Generation Beta-the cohort born after 2025, will grow up in a
hyper-digital, AI-driven world. As hyper-digital natives, they will
rely on technologies like AI, robotics, VR, and AR for immersive,
adaptive learning. Their education will emphasize personalized
learning with AI-driven customization and real-time feedback.
Exposed to global cultures and tools, they will emerge as global
citizens, fluent in multiple languages and culturally aware.
-expected to be socially conscious, prioritizing sustainability,
inclusivity, and equity & thrive in collaborative environments,
using online platforms and gamified tools to solve problems
together. Growing up amidst constant change, they will be
adaptive and resilient, skilled at learning, unlearning, and
relearning.
Traditional Learner VS 21st Century Learner
References
Bowen,J. A. ( 2021). Teaching naked: How moving technology out of your college classroom will
improve student learning. John Wiley & Sons.
Brookfield, S. D. (2016). The skillful teacher: On trust, technique and responsiveness in the
classroom. San Francisco, CA: Jossey-Bass.
Loretto P.(2015). Characteristics of the Baby Boomer. Retrieved March 4, 2016, from
http://internships.about.com/od/internships101/qt/Characteristics-Of-The-Baby- Boomer.htm.
Oblinger, D. (2014). The next generation of educational engagement. Journal of Interactive Media in
Education, (8). Retrieved March 2, 2016, from http://www- jime.open.ac.uk/2004/8/oblinger-
2004-8-disc-t.html
Roberts, D.H., Newman, L.R., Schwarzstein, R.M. ( 2022). Twelve tips for facilitating Millennials’
learning. Med Teach, 34(4), 274–278.
Wallace, J. (2016). Work Commitment in the Legal Profession: A Study of Baby Boomers and
Generation Xers. International Journal of the Legal Profession, 13(2), 137-151.
