EXPLORING THE WORLD OF GENERATION ALPHA: THROUGH THE LENS OF THE TEACHERS

EDUCATION

This study explores Generation Alpha, a group of children born after 2010, through the experiences of teachers who interact with them regularly. Generation Alpha, as digital natives, is maturing in an environment marked by shifting social norms, rapid technological advancements, and global connectivity. The study aimed to explore teachers' experiences, challenges, coping mechanisms, and insights while working with Generation Alpha students, as perceived by the teachers themselves. Data was collected through in-depth interviews. Nine selected educators participated in the study. The findings showed that Generation Alpha's early interaction with digital media significantly shaped their learning preferences, making traditional teaching methods such as lectures and chalk talks less effective. To effectively engage these students, educators need to incorporate technology into their personal and classroom experiences. The study reveals three key lessons about teaching today's generation. Generation Alpha's familiarity with digital tools fosters creativity and necessitates the integration of technology in the classroom. Collaborative learning has emerged as a highly effective method due to its alignment with active engagement styles and digital experiences. Third, while they emphasize kinesthetic and visual learning, outcomes are enhanced when group activities are paired with personalized and self-directed instruction. However, there are also disadvantages, including Generation Alpha's limited attention spans, challenges in engaging in non-digital activities, and difficulties with emotional regulation stemming from social media and screen exposure. To tackle these issues, educators should foster open communication, create a positive learning environment, and incorporate physical activities to support emotional balance. The findings emphasize the importance of continuous professional development for educators, aligning with the notion that learning is a lifelong journey. By embracing innovation and adjusting their teaching methods, educators can more effectively address the needs of Generation Alpha while enhancing their own professional skills.

This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-ShareAlike 4.0 International License.