‘Teens Teach Tech’ Bridges Digital and Generational Divides

I’m a firm believer in having something to learn from everyone I encounter, even teenagers. And when it comes to learning about technology, “even” teenagers becomes “especially” teenagers.

That’s why Connected Nation has tapped into Gen Z to lead their “Teens Teach Tech” program through which teams of teens working with an adult mentor provide hands-on workshops, one-on-one mentorship sessions, virtual sessions and community events that cover a variety of digital skills, from basic computer literacy to understanding mobile devices, internet security and more.

Teams are self-formed and include two or more students in grades eight through 12 and an adult mentor who’s affiliated with a community organization, like a school, church, civic group, community center, county or state Farm Bureau or other nonprofit.

With funding from AT&T, Connected Nation provides training materials, support for mentors and financial incentives, all designed to be engaging, accessible and tailored to the needs of the community.

The program is a triple win – with the teens, mentors and workshop participants all gaining from this initiative.

For the students, it’s a unique opportunity to take a leadership role in their community and to enhance their resume. Their participation often earns them state- or county-required student service hours. Connected Nation also provides financial incentives.

“I’ve learned I love to help people, and especially being able to help older people with technology in general and helping them be able to be more comfortable with the technology,” said a teen trainer from Texas.

Mentors, too, have found their roles in guiding teens to meet what has become almost a basic need – an understanding of technology – to be very fulfilling.

“We take for granted that just because we know something, everybody else does, but there’s so many things that these teens have to offer to the older generation,” noted a mentor from Indiana.

In 2023, Teens Teach Tech trained 12,113 adult learners during 576 teen-led workshops in 17 states. The workshop offerings include internet basics, computer basics, cybersecurity, email basics, mobile device basics (Android and Apple) and video conferencing.

Learn more about the program and submit an interest form here.

Connected Nation

Connected Nation’s mission is to improve lives by providing innovative solutions that expand the access, adoption and use of high-speed internet and its related technologies. American Farm Bureau Federation President Zippy Duvall is on the organization’s board of directors.