Abstract

In the higher education scenario, the engagement between teachers and Generation Z (Gen Z) students is extremely important for effective learning. In my experience as an educator, I have found that fostering a co-created, interactive, and psychologically informed learning environment greatly benefits students. Gen Z students, characterized by their tech skills and preference for real-world relevance in learning, demand a lot more from the traditional classroom settings. This paper explores how educators can use humour, familiarity with Gen Z's interests, and various engaging tools- memes, social media, real-life examples, art, music, and collaborative projects- to cultivate a positive and inclusive learning atmosphere. Such an approach not only increases student engagement but also respects their unique perspectives. Drawing on recent studies and my classroom experiences, this paper emphasizes the need for educators to understand Gen Z's psychology, harness their interests, and bridge generational gaps through innovative and relatable teaching methods.