Generation Z's learning preferences: impact on organisational learning and development - a study conducted in a vocational institute in UAE

摘要

West-based research suggests that Generation Z (youth born 1995 onwards) engages less with classroom-based traditional learning (TL) and prefers interactive e-learning (IL), just-in-time learning (JITL) and collaborative learning (CL). This research, conducted in a vocational training institute in United Arab Emirates (UAE), determines whether UAE Generation Z has learning preferences similar to Western Generation Z, and analyses the impact of these preferences on organisational L&D programs. Results support the existing notion that Generation Z prefers IL more than predecessor generations however, this study has also found that UAE Gen Z does not discard TL as a means for learning and want this mode of learning to go along with IL, JITL and CL. Pearson's r analysis showed significant positive correlations between learning preferences (IL, JITL and CL) and their impact on trainees' interest in organisational L&D programs. Regression analysis showed significant variances in trainees' interest in organisational L&D programs because of using these learning preferences.