Learning Preferences and Engagement Level of Generation Z Nursing Students

BACKGROUND: Minimal information exists about the educational environment that will foster learning and engage Generation Z students. PURPOSE: The purposes of this study were to identify the teaching methods that Generation Z nursing students preferred and felt were the most engaging and effective for learning and to determine their engagement level in the classroom setting. METHODS: This study employed a descriptive, cross-sectional design. RESULTS: Lecture with audience response clickers was the most preferred/most engaging and effective method for helping Generation Z nursing students learn, whereas assigned reading was the least preferred method. Students preferred a traditional classroom model instead of a flipped classroom. Acquiring skills was the dimension of engagement rated the highest by this group of students. CONCLUSIONS: Innovative lectures that incorporate applicable visual images and audience involvement combined with simulation, videos, and case studies may encompass a teaching formula that will engage and foster learning for Generation Z students.