Generation Z Academic Achievement Controversy[AI Generated Image][AI Generated Image]
A recent analysis suggests that ‘Generation Z,’ comprising individuals born between 1997 and 2010, is the first generation to underperform academically compared to their parents.
Dr. Jared Cooney Horvath, a Harvard-educated neuroscientist, revealed in a New York Post interview on February 7 that Generation Z has scored lower on standardized tests than previous generations for the first time in modern history.
He elaborated that this cohort has shown poor performance across nearly all cognitive metrics, including basic attention, memory, literacy, numeracy, executive function, and overall IQ.
Dr. Horvath also identified excessive self-confidence as a significant issue facing Generation Z.
He noted that, paradoxically, most of them are overly confident about their intellectual abilities. The more they believe they are intelligent, the lower their actual cognitive abilities tend to be.
Experts point to the excessive use of digital devices as a key factor in the decline of Generation Z’s cognitive abilities.
During a congressional hearing last month on technology’s impact on children, Dr. Horvath argued that digital devices hinder the development of children’s cognitive abilities.
He emphasized that Generation Z is the first to grow up constantly exposed to screens.
Dr. Horvath explained that humans are designed to learn through deep reading and interpersonal interactions. However, in reality, most classroom instruction and assignments are now dominated by digital content.
As students increasingly rely on online ‘summary content,’ their learning methods are shifting from ‘close reading’ to ‘skimming.’
While clarifying that he is not a technology skeptic, Dr. Horvath insists that schools should limit screen use in classrooms.
He also noted that this phenomenon is not limited to the United States.
According to data from 80 countries, Dr. Horvath stated that academic performance has significantly declined since the widespread introduction of digital technology in schools.
He suggested that limiting screen use in classrooms could provide the next generation, known as ‘Generation Alpha,’ with a better learning environment.
#GenerationZ #AcademicAchievement #AcademicUnderperformance
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Kim Nahyun (hyeonie@yna.co.kr)
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