Student in a new formation: generation Z and alpha functions

Нұрлан Іңкәр
Рустем Жансая

Есіркеп Бибісара Мұғалбекқызы
Қазақ Ұлттық Қыздар Педагогикалық университеті
Мақала жетекшісі

Annotation

The article compares the psychological characteristics of generation Z and generation Alpha, their motivation in the learning process and attitude towards education.The development of modern schoolchildren in the digital environment, their perception of information, their cognitive and social skills are comprehensively analyzed. The author emphasizes the need to update the role and methods of work of the teacher with students of the new formation.It is shown that adaptation to the change of generations and times is the main task of the modern education system.

Keywords: Generation Z, generation Alpha, psychological behavior, motivation, digital generation, education, new format student, pedagogical method, modern school.

Introduction

With the passage of time and the development of technology, human nature and the worldview of generations also change. Today’s schoolchildren are a new generation of children born and raised in a digital environment that is completely different from the previous generation.These are generations Z and Alpha. The psychological portrait, motivational characteristics and attitudes towards education of these generations are becoming a topical subject of research in modern pedagogy and psychology.The task of the teacher and the school is to create an effective educational and upbringing environment taking into account these features.

Main section

Generation Z is those born between approximately 1997 and 2012. This generation had access to the Internet from childhood and grew up surrounded by technology.The ability to absorb information is high, but the stability of attention is relatively weak.They are good at multitasking, but prefer visual and interactive content over deep analysis.This is the main difference in their psychological character [1.45b]. And the Alpha generation is children born after 2013. These children live in a completely digital environment. Their thinking is creative, flexible and receptive to technology. However, this convenience may weaken their connection with real life. Generation Alphas are emotionally open, but they have difficulty focusing on one task [2, 78b]. Psychologically, this generation is creative, but excessive sensory overload can affect their emotional stability.When it comes to motivation, these generations are more interested in internal interest and meaning than external control and discipline.They are more interested in knowledge that is relevant to real life.He is more inclined to practical and project-based learning than to dry theoretical material [3, 92b]. Generation Z and Alpha have a pragmatic approach to education.They understand that education is not for grades, but for a future career and application in life.In addition, this generation is characterized by a desire for creative freedom, a tendency to openly express their opinions and a tendency to make independent decisions. The teacher should no longer play the role of a commander, but rather be a partner and guide.

As you can see from the chart above, there are some similarities between Generation Z and Generation Alpha. Both are technology dependent, quickly absorb visual information, but may struggle when it comes to deep thinking.The teacher must take these differences into account and find an individual solution for each student. Generation Alpha is just starting to go to school, so game elements, gamification, and augmented and virtual reality technologies are effective in teaching them.And since Generation Z is in high school, motivation can be increased by giving them specific goals and career direction [4,133b].

Local culture includes a people’s language, traditions, values, and social behaviors. These deeply influence a child’s worldview, family upbringing, and interaction with society. For example, in Kazakh culture, respect for elders, strong family ties, and traditional upbringing continue to impact the development of these younger generations.

2. Influence on Generation Z

• Generation Z are the first “digital natives.” They are in close contact with global culture, but may sometimes lose interest in local language and traditions.
• National education systems and families play a key role in preserving cultural values and language.
• Local culture helps Generation Z develop a strong sense of identity and national consciousness.

3. Influence on Generation Alpha

• Generation Alpha is growing up with advanced technologies like AI, VR, and AR. Their values are shaped not only by the internet, but also by the influence of parents and educators.
• It’s crucial to introduce local culture to them through modern means such as digital games, cartoons, and educational content.
• If national culture is not integrated into digital content, Alpha children may become detached from their cultural roots.

4. The Importance of Cultural Balance

Generations Z and Alpha are open to the world, but preserving their cultural foundation ensures spiritual stability and a strong national identity. Therefore, it is vital to combine cultural values with modern educational approaches.

Conclusion

In conclusion, it should be said that today’s student is not the same as before. The logic of his thinking, the perception of emotions, the source of motivation — everything has changed over time. Generation Z and Alpha are the children of a new era. Recognizing their uniqueness is the hallmark of a great education system.As teachers, we must be able to communicate with this generation, trust it and support it with modern pedagogical methods. The student of the new formation is the face of the society of the future. Therefore, modern education will be fruitful only if it can listen, understand and guide a person..

List of references:

1. Tolegenova M.B. Psychology of youth identity. — Almaty: Obrazovanie, 2020. — 143 p.
2. Alimzhanova A.R. Personal characteristics of the digital generation // Pedagogy and psychology. — 2022. — No. 4. — P. 75–82.
3. Kozhakhmetova K.Zh. Motivational portrait of a modern student // World of education. — 2023. — No. 1. — P. 90-94.
4. Nazarbayev Intellectual Schools: Pedagogical Solutions for Generation Alpha. — Astana, 2023. — 133 p.