Course Description

Today’s digital natives face unique struggles with identity, loneliness, mental well-being, relationships, faith, and belonging. In Challenges of Digital Natives, Dr. Buno Iralu explores the realities of Generation Z and Generation Alpha, examining digital overload, social disconnection, emotional struggles, and spiritual uncertainty.

This session introduces the 4 Cs—Communication, Community, Confidence, and Care—as a practical framework for nurturing relationships, strengthening identity in Christ, and supporting holistic development. It also challenges theological educators to rethink teaching methods and create learning environments marked by empathy, connection, critical thinking, and spiritual formation.

Learning Outcomes

By the end of this lesson, learners will be able to:

• Identify the characteristics and challenges of Generation Z and Generation Alpha.
• Examine issues such as digital overload, loneliness, identity struggles, and spiritual uncertainty.
• Apply the 4 Cs—Communication, Community, Confidence, and Care—to support young people’s holistic development.
• Evaluate teaching approaches that better engage digital natives in theological education.
• Reflect on the Church’s role in helping young people develop a strong identity in Christ and live purposefully in a digital world.