The arrival of smartphones and fast internet connections everywhere has radically transformed the way we access information. With the arrival of mobile learning, also called mLearning, the educational landscape has changed significantly, in part to meet the needs of the younger generation, particularly Gen Z. This generation, born between 1997 and 2012, was born and raised in an era when mobile technology is ubiquitous and eLearning apps are just a click away. As a result, they have very different needs than previous generations, especially when it comes to training. Mobile learning, which involves the use of mobile devices such as smartphones and tablets to access educational resources, has become increasingly popular in recent years. This is due in large part to the proliferation of educational app development, which has made it easier than ever to access a wealth of educational content. But why is Generation Z so comfortable with mobile learning? For starters, it's convenient. With mobile learning, they can learn anytime, anywhere, without being tied to a physical classroom or computer. In addition, mobile learning is interactive and engaging, in line with their sensibilities as digital natives. Kids are used to using technology in all aspects of their lives, and education is no exception.

In this article, we explore why Gen Z is comfortable with mobile learning and how it is shaping the future of the world of education. We will delve into the benefits of mobile learning, and explore the implications of mobile learning for the future of education.

The rise of mobile learning apps

Mobile learning is undoubtedly affecting the education sector greatly. With the increasing use of smartphones and tablets, eLearning apps are becoming very popular, and the convenience, flexibility, and accessibility make this model of education an attractive option. Here is a list of some reasons behind the popularity of mobile eLearning apps:

1. Personalized and engaging training

In this type of app, developers can create interactive and engaging learning experiences that meet the needs and learning styles of individual learners. This aspect is innovative and can help learners stay motivated and engaged.

2. Convenient

Mobile learning apps are a great convenience for learners. Learners can access learning content anytime, anywhere, and on any device. This is especially beneficial for those who lead busy lives and do not have the time to attend traditional classroom courses. In fact, mobile learning apps allow students to learn at their own pace and on their own terms.

3. Cost-effective

Traditional education can be expensive: there are course fees, tuition, textbooks and other materials, travel expenses, and sometimes lodging. With mobile learning apps, on the other hand, students can access a great deal of educational content at a much reduced cost. This makes education more accessible to anyone, breaking a major obstacle in education: cost.

4. Advanced features of e-learning apps

Gamification and the application of artificial intelligence are some of the emerging and promising technologies for education app development. These technologies make learning more engaging, interactive, and fun. Gamification, in particular, has become a real mainstay in eLearning mobile app development. It involves incorporating game elements such as leaderboards and rewards into the learning experience that can motivate learners to achieve their goals.

mLearning and Generation Z

Generation Z (or Gen Z) has had a profound impact on education that is adapting to new needs and a new world. This generation is more tech-savvy than millennials and is more comfortable using mobile eLearning applications. For clarity, let's look at some relevant numbers about Gen Z and their approach to training:

• About 80% of Gen Z turn to the Internet to complete assigned tasks.
• 80% of Gen Zs use YouTube to better understand lessons.
• 29% of Gen Zs believe that robots can teach courses efficiently.
• 88% of Gen Zs prefer collaborative work to individual work.
• 67% of Gen Zs prefer personalized learning experiences.

66% of Gen Z prefer learning lessons through new technologies.

It is clear how Gen Z much prefers eLearning over traditional learning. As explained by researchers L. Mandau and M. Lakulu in the article "A Critical Review on M-learning for Generation Z," Gen Z is the first to be born and raised in the midst of technology and a high-tech environment that differentiate their perspectives from previous generations. Those belonging to this generation are tech-savvy, use social media, prefer visual form, have low attention spans, prefer entertainment and are highly connected. As for education, gen Z commonly uses mLearning platforms and prefers the aspect of ease of use over other elements.

The educational needs of gen Z

As we have seen, the development of education apps and the emergence of mobile learning have made it possible for Gen Z students to access educational content from anywhere, anytime, and on any device. But what exactly do new generations expect from education? Below we try to shed some light on what elements characterize mLearning to understand the characteristics from learning that attract Gen Z.

1. Autonomous learning

One of the most significant impacts of mLearning on Gen Z's behavioral habits is that it has made learners more autonomous. With the development of mobile education apps, students can take control of their own learning path and set their own pace. A hybrid training model that includes this with elements of traditional education is preferred over classroom learning alone, where students are often passive recipients of information.

2. Tailored instruction

In addition, mLearning has made instruction more personalized. With the development of education apps, it is now possible to create personalized learning experiences that meet the needs and learning styles of each individual learner.

3. Collaborative learning

Another impact of mLearning on the behavioral habits of Generation Z is that it has made students more collaborative. Many mobile education applications include features that allow students to connect with each other and work together on projects. This has helped foster a sense of community and collaboration among Gen Z students.

4. Interactive learning

Another impact of mLearning on education is that it has made learning more interactive and engaging. Through features such as gamification, social learning, and augmented reality, the development of education apps has made learning more fun and challenging.

5. Flexibility and adaptability

mLearning has made Gen Z students more flexible and adaptable. They also feel comfortable with distance learning and can quickly switch between tasks and activities. This can also be beneficial in the workplace, where employees are often required to be flexible.

6. Easy access

mLearning has made education more accessible. Traditional education requires students to be physically present in a classroom, which can be difficult for those who live far from school or have other commitments. Thanks to mLearning, students can access educational content from anywhere in the world, as long as they have an Internet connection. This has made education more inclusive and opened up opportunities for students who otherwise would not have had access to education.

7. Social impact

Finally, mLearning has had a positive impact on the education sector. It has opened new markets for those in education and created new opportunities for innovation and growth. It has also made education more accessible and inclusive, in line with the goals of many educators and policymakers. The ability to access educational materials through a smartphone, one of the most widely used tools in the world, has in fact opened the doors of virtual schools to so many people of all ages, countries, economic situations, and especially to millions of children who have never been fortunate enough to have access to education.

mLearning: The future of Gen Z with eLearning apps.

With mLearning and the development of education apps continuing to evolve and transform the way students access and consume educational content, Generation Z is in a unique position to shape the future of education.

Listening to the needs and expectations of this generation is critical to improving learning delivery and ensuring effective education.

As mLearning continues to evolve, we can expect even more exciting developments. New technologies, such as virtual and augmented reality, have already been incorporated into mLearning, and we are likely to see even more innovative and engaging learning experiences in the future.