As the saying goes, “The only constant in life is change.” Whether we embrace it or not, the passage of time inevitably brings shifts in trends and behaviors. Today, the younger generation, commonly referred to as “Gen Z,” embodies these changes. This shift has contributed to a noticeable gap between older and younger generations, shaped by differing upbringings and evolving societal norms.
Photo courtesy: Freepik
One clear example of this divide is seen in the behavior and study habits of modern learners. A Facebook post by teacher Henry R. Trinidad, Jr., shared on the page Pahina ni Henry, has gone viral for its honest reflections on educating today’s youth. In his post, Teacher Henry offers a disclaimer, asking readers not to take his observations personally.
He points out that today’s youth are distinctly shaped by modern technology and evolving ideas. For instance, he observes that many students now struggle to answer identification questions or provide responses without the aid of multiple-choice options. Moreover, they no longer ask for a few minutes to review before an exam begins. Instead, their focus seems more attuned to trending topics and viral content than their academic lessons.
Teacher Henry further notes that the younger generation appears increasingly engrossed in online games and social media. They seem to prioritize appearance and style over character and values, often asserting that grades do not define one’s worth.
In addition, he highlights the growing tendency to shift responsibility to educators. For instance, when a student receives a passing grade of 75, it’s often seen as the teacher’s fault, despite the student falling short. In academic circles, this phenomenon is referred to as the “teacher’s factor.”
Photo courtesy: Facebook/Pahina ni Henry/Henry Trinidad, Jr.
Here’s the whole post:
“Nais ko sanang maging guro na may mataas na standard, yung tipong you will get the grade that you deserve, kaso naiisip ko…”
“Nagtuturo nga pala ako sa henerasyong hindi kayang sumagot sa exam kapag identification type ang ginamit.”
“Nasa harapan ko pala yung mga estudyanteng hindi humihingi ng 5 minutes review kapag may pagsusulit.”
“Nagtuturo pala ako sa mga batang mas alam ang kasalukuyang trending kaysa sa nakaraan na aralin.”
“Nasa silid-aralan pala ako ng mga mag-aaral na lulong sa adiksyon hindi ng droga kundi ng online games at social media.”
“Hinuhulma ko nga pala ang henerasyong pilit pìnanghahawakan ang katagang “Grades don’t define you”. Edi wow na lang.”
“At nagtuturo nga pala ako sa henerasyon ng mga batang madalas inuuna ang kanilang hitsura at porma kaysa sa kanilang karakter at pagpapahalaga.”
“Ay, oo nga pala, bago ko makalimutan, nagtuturo nga pala ako sa isang sistemang kapag nagbigay ka ng 75, ikaw na guro ang pandidirihan, kasi wala kang ginawa,” he said.
