Today’s instructional designers are challenged to create learning content for not only a globally dispersed audience, but also one that’s generationally rich. In 2021 there are five distinct generations in the workforce—all with distinct learning styles. Is your content reaching them all?
In this webinar, our guest Andrea Maliska, Founder of Rebel Learn LLC, led a discussion focused on how to increase the engagement of your learners by keeping the five-generation spread in mind.
5 Generations in the Workforce—Who Are They?
The following generation descriptions are broad generalizations. Some learners may share overlapping characteristics from multiple generations. The times we grew up in, along with location and culture, shape who we are and how we learn. Understanding these differences can help us better engage our learners.
Generation Z (born after 1997)
Technology
Prefer online communication vs. face to face
Visual learners
Independent
Short attention spans
Multi-taskers
Millennials or Generation Y (early 80s - mid 90s)
Tech-savvy
Family centric
Work/life balance
Achievement-oriented
Team oriented
Craves feedback and guidance
Hands-on and interactive
Meaningful work
Generation X (1965 - early 80s)
Individualistic
Flexible
Work/life balance
Technically adept
Skeptical
Motivated
Pragmatic
Baby Boomers (born between 1946 - 1964)
Strong work ethic
Independent and self-assured
Competitive
Goal centric
Resourceful
Focused Team oriented
Traditionalists (born before 1946)
Hard-working
Determined
Loyal employees
Respect authority
Traditional
Strong work ethic
Reliable
So how can you design your eLearning and online training programs to engage all these generations?
Building content for multiple generations truly requires a multi-faceted approach.
You need to know your audience and their preferences, but certain instructional design approaches will serve you well no matter what, such as remembering to answer the question “What’s In It For Me? (WIFM)” and using techniques like storytelling and microlearning.
Watch the webinar recording now for all of Andrea’s tips.
Looking for a user-friendly learning platform that appeals to today’s learners? Check out the Rockstar Learning Platform.
