Edutainment
Word of the Year 2024: Can Teachers Keep Up With The Evolving Language of Gen Z?
Language evolves at a rapid pace, and the younger generation—Gen Z and the emerging Gen Alpha—are taking it to new heights. Social media platforms like TikTok and Instagram have become hotbeds for linguistic innovation, where abbreviations, slang, and newly minted words emerge faster than ever before. Words like “brb,” “slay,” “sus,” and even Oxford’s Word of the Year 2024, “brain rot,” are part of their everyday vocabulary. But amidst this linguistic whirlwind, one question arises: Are teachers catching up?
A Gap in Communication
Imagine a classroom where a student says, “brb! Wanna use the washroom,” and the teacher pauses, unsure of the abbreviation. Such scenarios highlight a communication gap. Research consistently shows that effective communication between students and teachers fosters trust, engagement, and better learning outcomes. According to a 2022 study by Education Week, students who feel understood by their teachers are 45% more likely to excel academically and 30% less likely to skip classes.
However, understanding Gen Z’s and Gen Alpha’s linguistic trends isn’t just about learning a dictionary of slang—it’s about bridging a generational divide and fostering mutual respect.
Tackling the Language Gap
- Training Teachers on Evolving Language
One way to address the gap is to provide teachers with targeted training sessions that focus on the language trends of younger generations. These sessions could include decoding popular abbreviations, slang, and even cultural references that dominate social media. This approach can help teachers stay relevant and avoid miscommunication. However, with mounting academic and emotional responsibilities, many educators might find such training an added burden. - Building Relationships Through Interaction
A more organic solution lies in fostering better teacher-student relationships. By engaging in informal conversations with students, teachers can learn their language naturally. This approach not only helps teachers understand evolving slang but also humanises them in the eyes of their students, fostering trust and relatability. Interacting with students on their terms creates a classroom culture of mutual respect and understanding.
The Role of Language in Education
Language is more than just a tool for communication—it shapes relationships and builds cultural bridges. The words of the year like “manifest” and “brat” represent not only linguistic trends but also cultural shifts towards empowerment, individuality, and self-expression. Teachers who understand this language can better connect with their students, appreciating the unique values and pressures they face.
The Words of the Year 2024—‘brain rot’, ‘manifest’, ‘brat’, and ‘demure’—offer educators a glimpse into the psyche of today’s youth.
For example, ‘brain rot’ reflects Gen Z’s awareness of digital overconsumption, while ‘manifest’ underscores their optimism and drive for self-improvement. A teacher who grasps these nuances can integrate them into lessons and discussions, creating a more engaging learning experience.
Ultimately, understanding the language of younger generations is a two-way street. While teachers can make an effort to decode Gen Z and Gen Alpha slang, students too can adapt to bridge the gap. The key lies in fostering dialogue and mutual respect, ensuring that language differences become a point of connection rather than a barrier.
As language continues to evolve at a breakneck pace, the classroom must remain a space where both students and teachers feel heard and understood. By embracing change and prioritising communication, education can keep up with the times while maintaining its core values.