Integrating Deep Learning-Based STEM Education to Enhance 21st-Century Skills among Generation Z

Abstract

The demands of 21st-century education emphasize the mastery of critical thinking,
creativity, communication, collaboration, and digital literacy, particularly for
Generation Z, who grew up in the era of rapid technological advancement. One
relevant approach is the integration of Science, Technology, Engineering, and
Mathematics (STEM) education with deep learning, which focuses on conceptual
understanding, reflection, and active student engagement. This article aims to
review recent national and international research findings on the implementation of
deep learning-based STEM integration to enhance 21st-century skills among
Generation Z. The study employs a literature review method by analyzing scientific
publications from accredited national and international journals. The analysis
reveals that integrating STEM with deep learning effectively strengthens science
process skills, problem-solving abilities, collaboration, and digital literacy, aligning
with the adaptive nature of Generation Z toward technological development.
Furthermore, this approach promotes contextual, innovative, and future-oriented
learning. Therefore, the integration of deep learning-based STEM education can be
considered an effective strategy to facilitate the mastery of 21st-century skills while
preparing Generation Z to face global challenges