--- title: "Mind the Gap: Strategies to Avoid a Generation Gap in your Learning" description: Instructional designers, learn how to increase online learner engagement by keeping the five-generation spread in mind, from traditionalists to gen Z. image: https://blog.elblearning.com/hubfs/Mind%20the%20Gap-%20Strategies%20to%20Avoid%20a%20Generation%20Gap%20in%20your%20Learning_Blog%20Featured%20Image%20800x500.png --- [![ELB-Learning_Logo_ColorRGB-white-text-1](https://blog.elblearning.com/hubfs/ELB-Learning_Logo_ColorRGB-white-text-1.png) ](https://elblearning.com/) ![Mind the Gap: Strategies to Avoid a Generation Gap in your Learning](https://blog.elblearning.com/hubfs/Mind%20the%20Gap-%20Strategies%20to%20Avoid%20a%20Generation%20Gap%20in%20your%20Learning_Blog%20Featured%20Image%20800x500.png) # Mind the Gap: Strategies to Avoid a Generation Gap in your Learning by [Stephanie Ivec](https://blog.elblearning.com/author/stephanie-ivec) | Mar 22, 2021 Today’s instructional designers are challenged to create learning content for not only a globally dispersed audience, but also one that’s generationally rich. In 2021 there are five distinct generations in the workforce—all with distinct learning styles. Is your content reaching them all? In this webinar, our guest Andrea Maliska, Founder of Rebel Learn LLC, led a discussion focused on how to increase the engagement of your learners by keeping the five-generation spread in mind. ## **5 Generations in the Workforce—Who Are They?** The following generation descriptions are broad generalizations. Some learners may share overlapping characteristics from multiple generations. The times we grew up in, along with location and culture, shape who we are and how we learn. Understanding these differences can help us better engage our learners.   ### **Generation Z (born after 1997)** Technology Prefer online communication vs. face to face Visual learners Independent Short attention spans Multi-taskers   ### **Millennials or Generation Y (early 80s - mid 90s)** Tech-savvy Family centric Work/life balance Achievement-oriented Team oriented Craves feedback and guidance Hands-on and interactive Meaningful work   ### **Generation X (1965 - early 80s)** Individualistic Flexible  Work/life balance Technically adept Skeptical Motivated Pragmatic   ### **Baby Boomers (born between 1946 - 1964)** Strong work ethic Independent and self-assured Competitive Goal centric Resourceful Focused Team oriented   ### **Traditionalists (born before 1946)** Hard-working Determined Loyal employees Respect authority Traditional Strong work ethic Reliable   ## **So how can you design your eLearning and online training programs to engage all these generations?** ![mind_the_gap_webinar_solutions_web_map](https://blog.elblearning.com/hs-fs/hubfs/mind_the_gap_webinar_solutions_web_map.png?width=500&name=mind_the_gap_webinar_solutions_web_map.png) Building content for multiple generations truly requires a multi-faceted approach.  You need to know your audience and their preferences, but certain instructional design approaches will serve you well no matter what, such as remembering to answer the question “What’s In It For Me? (WIFM)” and using techniques like storytelling and microlearning.  ### Watch the webinar recording now for all of Andrea’s tips.   Looking for a user-friendly learning platform that appeals to today’s learners? Check out the Rockstar Learning Platform. 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