Pedagogical Opportunities and Challenges among English Teachers in the Contemporary Classroom

Abstract

The advent of educational opportunities and challenges, as concomitants of technological evolution and generational emergence, has surfaced. This has revolutionized the teaching-learning process for Gen Z students nowadays. Hence, this study investigates the pedagogical and student-centered opportunities and challenges that English teachers encounter when teaching Gen Z students. The study employed a descriptive quantitative design using survey questionnaires to elicit the requisite insights of teachers and Gen Z students. The study revealed that English teachers perceive both opportunities and challenges in integrating technology, employing teaching strategies, and managing classroom behavior, while also acknowledging the need for strategic interventions such as targeted professional development, streamlined resources, and institutional support. The study also found that trending innovative educational tools and methods enhance Gen Z students’ attention, retention, and interest in learning. It further highlighted that collaboration with diverse individuals yields better learning outcomes and competencies. Thus, there is a need for educators to integrate technology, adapt to innovative teaching-learning processes, employ the student-centered approach with ample time allocation, and align competencies to the current demands of industry and society.