A Generation That Learns Differently
Generation Alpha the children of millennials are growing up with tablets before textbooks, YouTube before television, and digital assistants before dictionaries. Unlike previous generations, they are “born digital,” learning and absorbing information in ways shaped by constant exposure to technology. For them, the traditional classroom model of long lectures and paper notes can feel outdated, even frustrating.
This is where the flipped classroom comes in. By reversing the traditional order of learning lessons at home, practice in class the flipped approach aligns perfectly with how Gen Alpha already consumes and interacts with information.
From Listening to Doing
In the traditional model, students spend class time listening and then struggle with homework alone at night. For Gen Alpha, who thrive on interactivity, this often means disengagement. The flipped classroom changes that rhythm. Instead of being passive recipients, students arrive at class having already watched short videos, explored digital lessons, or used online quizzes to understand the basics.
Classroom time is then freed for problem-solving, teamwork, and real-life application. This plays to Gen Alpha’s strengths: they learn by doing, questioning, and collaborating.
Independence from the Start
Flipped learning also teaches responsibility. Gen Alpha students are independent by nature used to navigating apps, customizing playlists, and finding answers on Google. By preparing before class, they take ownership of their progress and arrive ready to engage.
Of course, some students need more guidance to build discipline. But encouraging independence early equips Gen Alpha with the skills for lifelong learning in a world where jobs and technologies evolve rapidly.
Teachers as Guides
In a flipped classroom, teachers shift from being “knowledge broadcasters” to mentors and facilitators. This resonates with Gen Alpha, who are used to interactive platforms rather than one-way communication.
The change also allows for stronger personal connections. Despite being the most digitally connected generation, Gen Alpha craves authentic interactions. Flipped learning gives teachers the space to focus on individuals instead of racing through lectures.
Challenges Ahead
No approach is without obstacles. Flipped learning assumes students have reliable devices and internet access at home something not guaranteed for every family. Teachers also need time and creativity to prepare engaging content.
And for Gen Alpha, whose attention spans are shaped by fast-paced media, lessons must be short, sharp, and interactive. Bite-sized videos, gamified learning, and quizzes often work best.
Future-Ready Skills
The flipped classroom is not just about teaching differently it’s about preparing Gen Alpha for the future. Their careers will demand adaptability, teamwork, and problem-solving skills that a lecture-heavy system struggles to deliver.
At INTI International University, elements of flipped learning have already been introduced to strengthen this kind of active engagement. Students prepare with digital resources before class, then dive into projects and case studies during lessons turning knowledge into action.
Why It Matters
Flipped learning is not a passing trend. It’s a response to a changing generation. Gen Alpha are curious, independent, and digitally fluent, but they need guidance to think critically and collaborate meaningfully.
By shifting homework into the classroom and lessons into the home, flipped learning strikes a balance: harnessing technology while keeping the human connection alive. For Gen Alpha, it makes perfect sense. It transforms education into an active, engaging, and future-ready experience exactly what this generation needs to thrive in a world where innovation never slows down.
This is the author's personal view and does not necessarily represent the views or official position of RTM.
Dr. Saheera Binti Sardar Mohamed,
Senior Lecturer Mass Communication
Faculty Business and Communication
INTI International University
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