The landscape of medical education is changing, driven largely by the unique characteristics of Generation Z learners. As these students transition from undergraduate medical education (UME) to graduate medical education (GME), educators face the challenge of adapting to new preferences for learning styles and communication methods
At the MedHub 2025 Virtual Medical Education Summit, Dr. Richard Terry, Vice President of Program Development and Management at LEECOM, led a panel on how educators can better engage with the newest generation of learners. Dr. Terry was joined by Rachel Muggleton and Jazz Munitz, both third-year osteopathic medical students at LEECOM Elmira, to discuss how Gen Z learns, and how programs can create a more effective educational environment.
Facing the Challenges of Social Media Addiction
Gen Z is typically defined as being born between the years of 1997 and 2012. They grew up online, with computers, digital screens, and social media being the norm. This generation thus often finds themselves navigating the challenges of social media addiction, which can significantly influence their educational experiences and mental health. Platforms like Instagram, TikTok, and Reddit are designed to be addictive, and this reliance on dopamine can have severe impacts on sleep patterns and the ability to multitask.
The addiction is not just about the time spent online but also about the constant need for validation and feedback. This reliance on digital platforms for self-worth can lead to increased anxiety and stress, particularly in the high-pressure environment of medical education. Munitz described how this need for validation manifests in daily life.
“We crowdsource our self-esteem. That’s where we get our validation: all online,” he said.
Muggleton notes that she and her cohorts not only crowdsource self-esteem, but they often make major life decisions based on the feedback they find online. Posts found on platforms like Reddit and Student Doctor Network influence how students choose everything from study tools to residency programs.
“We trust Internet reviews over our best friends’ reviews of things,” she said, before challenging attendees to search for their programs on social media to see what public opinion looks like.
The Growing Role of Technology in Medical Education
Gen Z not only grew up with social media, but with modern technology, and as a result they expect technology to be an integral part of their educational journey. Many students prefer to learn through short, interactive videos, digital simulations, and gamification.
This expectation is transforming how medical schools deliver content and engage with students. Muggleton says that tools like Oxford simulations and virtual reality have become central to the learning process.
“We find comfort in technology. We grew up in the age of iPhones and computers, and we know no world without them. We’re used to all the cool gadgets, and we like to utilize them,” she said.
Munitz agreed and noted that shared access to online flashcards and other study resources helps level the playing field, ensuring that all students, regardless of their background or institution, have the tools they need to succeed.
“Every med student coming out of med school anywhere in the country, including IMGs and overseas, are basically using the same pool of information,” he noted.
Framing Feedback for a New Generation
Members of Gen Z prefer regular feedback, and they prefer more of it than prior generations did. Dr. Terry warns that the traditional “cold sandwich” approach of hiding negative comments between positive ones is less effective than it has been with previous generations. Instead, he recommends a “wise feedback” model that encourages and motivates, as it lets students feel valued and understood, rather than intimidated or belittled.
Munitz stated that the emphasis on feedback that is both honest and encouraging is crucial in helping students develop resilience and confidence. He suggested that educators share personal experiences and challenges, which can help motivate students to get through their own difficulties.
“We love the ‘back in my day’ stories because they become a cornerstone for us to build on as someone with shared experience,” he said.
As medical education continues to evolve, so does the role of educators. Gen Z learners, who thrive on collaboration and feedback, respond best to mentors who provide guidance, support, and encouragement. This mentorship approach is crucial in fostering a positive and productive educational environment.
Dr. Terry says educators should adopt a mentor mindset and notes that it is important to be a constant advocate for students. Nurturing students’ potential is key for helping them to navigate the challenges of medical education.
We’re not looking to win. It’s not a power struggle,” he explained. “We must look towards future growth. We must constantly be with their coach, providing support. We must show motivation, respect them, and be transparent with our feedback.”
Resilience in a Changing World
Members of Gen Z are often perceived as having a lack of resilience. This common misconception overlooks the unique challenges and pressures facing these learners. Social media fuels constant comparison, creating pressures that previous generations may not have experienced. Muggleton suggested that generations should come together to create a more supportive network for learners.
“I think resilience is so subjective to every generation. Your boomer sense of resilience and what they had to go through is so different than millennial and so different than Gen Z,” she said. “And how do we all look at each other and say, “what you went through is hard. And I see that and I’m so grateful that you went through that and how teach me how you did it and how you got through it? What coping strategies did you do? Who did you lean on?’”
One way that Gen Z copes with pressure is by demanding a balanced life. Unlike previous generations, who often equated resilience with long hours and sacrifice, Gen Z values a more holistic approach to life and work. Dr. Terry credits Gen Z learners with maintaining mental health and prioritizing well-being.
“We love to equate resilience with work ethic. This generation has a much better mindset of what a balanced life should be,” he said.
Despite the challenges, Munitz notes that at the end of the day, Gen Z learners are still determined to pursue a career in medicine.
“The fact that any of us are sitting here, the fact that the applicants have sent in their applications, when you guys are doing your admissions processes, every single person had different paths that they could have taken other than medicine that would have yielded more money, easier career paths much early on, but yet they decided to stick it out,” he said.
Addressing Mental Health in Medical School
Medical education is a high-pressure environment. Medical students are more likely to have signs of burnout, depression, and anxiety than the general population. And as students navigate the demanding academic and clinical requirements of medical school, they may also be managing personal and emotional challenges. Dr. Terry said educators must focus on student wellbeing and put mental health first.
“We must constantly be sensitive to their wellness, and where they’re at,” he said.
Muggleton emphasized the need for accessible mental health resources and mentorship programs to create a healthy learning environment. Resources like counseling services, stress management workshops, and peer support groups can help students manage stress.
“We love to see access to mental health resources. How much do you prioritize that in your school and your residency program?” she asked.
The Future of Medical Education
As medical education evolves to meet the unique needs of Gen Z, leaders must focus on crafting an environment that is not only effective but also equitable and centered around this unique generation of learners. Recognizing and building upon the strengths of Gen Z while addressing their challenges is the key to ensuring a brighter future for healthcare.