Generation Z, known as the iGeneration or the first digital natives, born between the mid-1990s and early 2010s, is currently navigating the complex landscape of education and entering the job market. Despite living in an era marked by technological advancements such as Artificial Intelligence (AI) and augmented learning facilities, Gen Z students seemingly face significant challenges in attaining a quality education that is personalised to their needs.
The question arose specifically in response to the recently published O-level and A-level results by MATSEC in Malta. According to this year's results, one in every five students sitting for an exam in a core O-level subject failed their exam, while just under a third received one of the top three grades. This year, more A-level exams were carried out, while the number remained lower than the peak of 5,500 in 2021. However, the results align with the results tranced over the previous years.
From the results per se, not much can be concluded on whether education standards have plummeted, or students have become worse especially since the test results could follow a bell curve. However, voices were raised that students could be expected to do better. Considering that especially Gen Z students have new and enhanced possibilities to get quality education in the age of AI and technology, teaching outcomes could be expected to be better. After all, statistics suggest that Gen Z is on track to be the best-educated generation compared to Millennials and Gen X with fewer drop-out rates and a higher percentage pursuing tertiary education.
One might expect that the integration of AI and advanced educational technologies would enhance learning experiences and outcomes. These tools offer personalised learning, real-time feedback, and access to vast resources, theoretically democratising education and making it more effective. However, despite technological advancements in the classroom, education standards may not have automatically advanced as several factors show.
Firstly, over-reliance on technology can detract from fundamental teaching methods. Critical thinking, problem-solving and interpersonal skills are not adequately developed through technology alone.
Secondly, a very real digital divide due to inequality in access to technology means that not all students may benefit equally from technological advancements.
Thirdly, curriculum and pedagogical issues need urgent attention. Many educational institutions are slow to adapt, resulting in outdated curricula that do not leverage the full potential of modern tools. Moreover, educators may lack the necessary training to effectively integrate technology into their teaching.
Lastly, the focus on standardised testing is problematic. The emphasis on standardised testing in many European countries and Malta has led to a narrow focus on test preparation rather than holistic education. This approach stifles creativity and critical thinking, which are crucial for navigating the complexities of the modern world. That the current way of teaching might not be effective for Gen Z anymore, can be seen in the 2020 EY Generate Survey, where education is seen as a greater challenge for Gen Z (32%) than Millennials (21%).
In Malta, despite technological investments, concerns about the quality of education persist. A 2020 report by the European Commission highlighted issues such as insufficient support for students with special needs, large class sizes and a lack of focus on critical thinking and problem-solving skills. Additionally, Malta struggles with significant socio-economic disparities that impact educational outcomes. Students from lower-income families often lack access to high-quality educational resources, exacerbating the achievement gap.
Moreover, challenges specific to Gen Z students must be considered when discussing their educational outputs. Digital distractions are a significant issue. Growing up in a digital age, Gen Z students are particularly susceptible to the distractions of social media, gaming and other online activities. These distractions can impede concentration and academic performance. Furthermore, mental health issues are a prevalent topic for Gen Z. The pressures of modern education, combined with the pervasive presence of social media, contribute to symptoms of anxiety, depression and stress, which are increasingly common for Gen Z. In 2016, the World Health Organisation reportedly discovered that Maltese students preparing for their O-Levels marked particularly high levels of stress. This stress or pressure could even be further amplified by financial constraints of students limiting their access to high-quality educational resources and educational resources.
The way forward should constitute effective teaching personalised for Gen Z in the AI era. The Times of Malta Article of 22 April on bringing AI into the classroom supports that schools should teach students how to use AI tools ethically. Most importantly, the article brings across the message that students skills matter more than the ability to just reproduce facts. Critical thinking and collaboration as social interaction is what Gen Z thrives on as well as communication and collaboration. Many Gen Z students prefer purpose-driven learning as they are motivated by a sense of purpose. Leveraging new technologies enables possibilities to provide personalised learning, which is a great advantage as Gen Z values individualisation. Considering that Gen Z sees themselves more as entrepreneurs, while Millennials would rather be employees as the 2020 EY Generate Survey shows, critical thinking and problem-solving seem to be the number one skill in demand, which can be supported by integrating case studies and interactive simulations.
Ultimately, education systems have to come to terms with the fact that effective teaching includes preparing Gen Z for a future shaped by AI. Investing in education systems and continuous professional development for educators is essential. Teachers must be equipped to integrate technology effectively into their teaching including AI. Substantial improvements also in Malta´s education system seem necessary to ensure that students are adequately prepared for higher education and the workforce without taking a toll on their mental health. This includes tackling socio-economic disparities and the digital divide. In light of the recent O- and A-level results, pressure should not be further put on students to perform better but on education systems. The question up for discussion should be whether the current education systems are equipped to the needs of Gen Z. Because what worked for Gen X and Millennials might not work anymore.
Lina Klesper is an international legal assistant at PKF Malta